Jose Mourinho has taken a hardline approach following Benfica’s 3–1 defeat to Braga in the Portuguese League Cup semi-finals, ordering his players to remain at the club’s training base in Seixal instead of returning home.
Benfica’s hopes of reaching the final were dashed on Wednesday night after the team was reduced to 10 men, with former Manchester City defender Nicolas Otamendi sent off during the encounter. The loss left Mourinho visibly furious, prompting immediate disciplinary measures.
Speaking on Thursday, the veteran coach said the decision was meant to force the players to reflect deeply on their performance and the disappointing cup exit.
“Today, thinking we were going to play the final, we’re not going home, we’re going to Seixal,” Mourinho said. “The players will sleep in Seixal. There’s training tomorrow and the day after tomorrow, even though there’s no game on Saturday.”
Mourinho added that the squad would stay at the training ground ahead of their next fixture, a crucial league clash against FC Porto next Wednesday. He said the players would be confined to their rooms upon arrival and encouraged them to spend the time thinking about the defeat.
The Benfica boss also revealed that emotions ran high in the dressing room after the match, describing his post-match talk as a “monologue” rather than a discussion. He noted that meaningful conversations with the players would begin during training as preparations for Porto intensify.
Benfica are expected to face Porto without Otamendi, Antonio Silva, and possibly Enzo Fernández, but Mourinho remains defiant, insisting the team must regroup quickly and approach the game with belief.
“Let’s go, thinking we can win the game,” he said.
