Mourinho powerless as Chelsea edge past Benfica

One-nil to Chelsea, a messy own-goal the difference, a defensive display solid enough to raise belief for tougher assignments to come.

- Jacob Steinberg

It was enough given the context, so much so that José Mourinho probably even appreciated the efficiency. He was back at Stamford Bridge to witness it all - a greyer figure these days, no longer the explosive touchline presence of old - and had little to offer beyond a few humble waves when the home fans sang his name.

Chelsea avoid any stumbles on their trip down memory lane. The narrative about how Mourinho's return would show how far his old club's standards have dropped never materialised. There was no alchemy from the 62-year-old; no expert tactical plan to confound Enzo Maresca. Then again the Mourinho of 2025 is not in charge of one of the Champions League's giants. Benfica were a tepid proposition and rarely looked capable of denying Chelsea a narrow victory. The only negative for the hosts was João Pedro seeing red in stoppage time for a second yellow card.

It was a poor game. Maresca will not care. He was under pressure and needed a positive result after opening the league phase with defeat to Bayern Munich last month. An injury-hit Chelsea, while not at their best, delivered. They will have to be better when Liverpool visit on Saturday.