In a drastic move following a disappointing cup exit, Jose Mourinho has ordered his Benfica players to spend the night at the club's training facilities.
Defeat and Dismissal Trigger Mourinho's Ire
The controversial decision came after Benfica suffered a 3-1 defeat to Braga in the League Cup semi-finals on Thursday, 8 January 2026. The match ended in further disgrace for the Lisbon giants as experienced defender Nicolas Otamendi received a red card in the 90th minute, forcing the team to finish the game with only ten men.
Mourinho, known for his fiery temperament and unique man-management style, was visibly furious after the final whistle. He expressed a clear desire for his players to dwell on the loss, stating he hoped they would experience "sleepless nights" reflecting on their performance and the missed opportunity.
Immediate Consequences and Porto Preparation
The punishment is not merely symbolic. The manager confirmed that training would resume immediately, with the squad remaining at the Seixal training complex. This unusual disciplinary measure is designed to sharpen focus ahead of a critical fixture.
Benfica must now quickly regroup for a high-stakes Portuguese Cup quarter-final against their arch-rivals, Porto. This match, the latest instalment of O Clássico, carries extra weight as Benfica currently trail Porto by 10 points in the Primeira Liga standings. The fierce encounter is scheduled for the coming midweek.
Mourinho's Message is Crystal Clear
This incident underscores Mourinho's relentless demand for high standards and his willingness to employ unconventional methods to provoke a reaction. By making his players sleep at the training ground, he sends a powerful message that their recent performance was unacceptable, especially with a season-defining clash against Porto on the horizon.
The coming days will reveal whether this strict approach pays dividends or adds further pressure to a Benfica squad already facing a significant points deficit in the domestic title race.
