Jose Mourinho unleashed a spectacular post-match rant, accusing his Benfica players of betraying him during their hard-fought Taca de Portugal victory over lower-league side Atletico CP.
The Half-Time Explosion
The 'Special One' watched on in horror as his team produced a shocking first-half display, prompting a quadruple substitution at the break. However, Mourinho revealed he would have gladly made nine changes if possible, stating only two players deserved to remain on the pitch.
Benfica eventually secured their place in the next round with two late goals, but the victory did little to temper their manager's fury. "At half-time, I made 4 substitutions, but I should've made 9," Mourinho declared. "Those 9 players weren't on the pitch. Only 2 should have stayed."
A System Betrayed
Mourinho was adamant the tactical system was not at fault for the dismal performance, instead pointing the finger squarely at his players' failure to execute. He expressed particular disdain for what he perceived as a lack of seriousness and commitment.
"The system works. The players in it aren't working," he stated bluntly. "I don't like players who betray me. Games are to be taken seriously. The other nine weren't."
The former Chelsea boss, who only returned to manage in his native Portugal a few months ago, also issued a stark warning to his squad. He explicitly told underperforming players not to question their lack of playing time moving forward.
Late Goals Paper Over the Cracks
The tense fourth-round clash was finally decided in the final twenty minutes. Ricard Rios broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute, providing a much-needed relief for the under-pressure giants.
Vangelis Pavlidis doubled the lead just four minutes later, ensuring Benfica's progression and avoiding a major cup upset. Despite the win, the match will be remembered for Mourinho's extraordinary comments, which highlight the ongoing challenges he faces at the Estadio da Luz.
While Benfica remain unbeaten in the Portuguese league this season, a series of draws has left them six points behind rivals Porto. Since his return, Mourinho has overseen seven wins from thirteen games, with all three of his losses coming in the Champions League.
