Champion coach Mourinho returns to the Champions League after five and a half years, suffering two consecutive defeats, conceding 4 goals and scoring none & a daunting schedule

In the third round of the Champions League group stage, Benfica lost 0-3 away to Newcastle, resulting in a catastrophic three-game losing streak in the Champions League, with 2 goals scored and 7 conceded over three matches.

Mourinho was dismissed by Fenerbahçe in the Turkish Super Lig this season and quickly took over at Benfica, marking his return to the Champions League after five and a half years; however, since taking charge of Benfica, the team has facedtwo consecutive Champions League defeats (0-1 to Chelsea, 0-3 to Newcastle), conceding 4 goals and failing to score any.Mourinho’s two returns to England for matches have both ended in losses.

As a Champions League-winning coach, Mourinho has led teams to the title twice,with Porto in the 2003-04 season and Inter Milan in the 2009-10 season.In recent years, Mourinho’s coaching platforms and results have declined significantly; he has increasingly struggled, often ending his tenure by being dismissed. Recently, he was sacked by Tottenham, Roma, and Fenerbahçe. Now back in the Portuguese league coaching Benfica, his record across all competitions is3 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses in 7 matches.Benfica currently ranks third in the Portuguese league, trailing Porto and Sporting, while in the Champions League they sit third from bottom with three straight defeats, showing very poor form.

After suffering two straight defeats upon his Champions League return, Mourinho now faces a brutal schedule; Benfica’s next five Champions League matches arehome against Leverkusen, away to Ajax, home versus Napoli, away at Juventus, and home against Real Madrid.Given Benfica’s current form and Mourinho’s tactical capabilities, winning even one match this Champions League season looks unlikely. It seems Mourinho has lost his tactical magic, making every match a tough challenge.