In Istanbul, Fenerbahçe and Benfica played cautiously and produced no goals — 0:0 in the first game of Champions League qualifying. In the 71st minute the visitors were reduced to ten men and saw out a result that was strategically favorable. After the final whistle, José Mourinho broke it down calmly — without accusations and with his customary respect for the opponent.
"No Criticism — Only Respect"
— Are you satisfied with the outcome and Benfica's approach?
— There can be no criticism. They played the way they thought they should, and by doing so showed us respect. Benfica have serious squad potential and a high level of individual quality. They saw how we played against Feyenoord and drew their conclusions.
Back Five, Red Card, And Cold Calculation
— How did the opponent's red card affect the course of the match?
— After the red card in the 71st minute, it was logical to drop into the most compact block possible. Benfica closed the flanks, settled into a back five, narrowed the spaces between the lines, and minimized risk. It was a pragmatic choice, and it worked: 0:0 away is a good result for them at this stage.
"I've Put Ten Behind The Ball Against Barça Myself"
— Do you consider that kind of football to be anti-football?
— No. Every coach has the right to choose his tools. I've put ten men behind the ball against Barcelona myself. Sometimes the best plan is discipline, structure, and patience. You win not only through possession, but through compactness, the right block height, and concentration in transition phases.
What Fenerbahçe Took From The Goalless Draw
— What would you say about your team?
— We controlled the tempo, but we lacked the final pass and accuracy in finishing. Against such an opponent and such a defensive model, micro-details are decisive — the quality of the first pass after a regain, the speed of moving the ball between the half-spaces, the proper use of width. These are elements we will improve.
Looking Ahead
— What will the approach be for the second leg?
— Maximum focus. We respect the opponent, but we believe in ourselves. We have to keep the balance: aggression in pressing and a cool head around the opposition penalty area. In ties like this, discipline and details set the tone — and we are ready.
