Pedro Neto lived up to Jose Mourinho’s glowing words with a standout display as Chelsea sealed a narrow 1-0 win over Benfica at Stamford Bridge, handing The Special One an unhappy return.
Chelsea Make Mourinho’s Return a Losing One
Chelsea kickstarted their Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Benfica, spoiling Jose Mourinho’s Stamford Bridge return. A first-half own goal — forced by Pedro Neto’s incisive pass into Alejandro Garnacho — proved decisive on a night when the Blues were pushed to their limits.
Benfica hit the post early and tested Robert Sánchez repeatedly, but Chelsea grew into the game and capitalised through Neto’s vision. From then on, it was a battle of resilience as Enzo Maresca’s side clung onto their narrow lead.
Neto Proves Mourinho Right
Ahead of kick-off, Mourinho had labelled Neto “one of the best wingers in the world.” The Portuguese attacker backed that up with a lively performance, orchestrating Chelsea’s most dangerous moves and setting up the only goal of the night. His direct play and creativity provided the spark in what was otherwise a flat attacking display.
Key Player Ratings
- Robert Sánchez (7/10): Kept Chelsea in it early with solid saves. Confident and composed.
- Pedro Neto (7/10): The standout performer — Mourinho’s praise looked justified. Vision and execution for the goal were top class.
- Moises Caicedo (7/10): A tireless presence in midfield, barely misplacing a pass.
- Enzo Fernández (7/10): Battled through fouls and off-field hostility to boss the midfield.
- Trevoh Chalobah (5/10): Shaky at the back, still struggling for consistency.
- Joao Pedro (3/10): A nightmare cameo — offered nothing going forward and saw red in stoppage time.
Maresca Gets the Win, But Questions Remain
Enzo Maresca made several changes and, while he got the result, Chelsea again looked toothless in attack and ended the match with 10 men. Still, the Blues now have their first Champions League win of the season, easing pressure as they look to build momentum.
