José Mourinho apologized to everyone at Real Madrid for his wild celebration after Benfica’s fourth goal, emphasizing that he wishes the club all the best for the future.
Mourinho has had strong ties to Real Madrid since his time there from 2010 to 2013, but that didn’t stop him from celebrating wildly when Benfica’s goalkeeper scored a crucial goal that sent the Portuguese club through to the Champions League Round of 16 playoffs.
Speaking after the match about his celebration, Mourinho said, “I’m sorry. In that moment, you forget that the opponent is Real Madrid.”
He added, “It wasn’t a normal moment. I forgot about people like Álvaro (Arbeloa), Chendo, or Butragueño. I forgot everything. It was just passion. It was a bad thing to do to Arbeloa and the Real Madrid fans. I’ll consider it just a moment of madness on my part.”
Meanwhile, Mourinho spoke about the circumstances surrounding the fourth goal, revealing that he was unaware his team needed another goal to qualify, admitting that luck was ultimately on their side.
Mourinho continued, “I thought 3-2 was enough and wanted to defend. When I was told we needed another goal, I was annoyed. I scolded my teammates and asked why they hadn’t informed me before making the final substitution.”
He concluded, “So I told Turpin to move forward and head the ball, especially since he’s two meters tall. He scored a fantastic goal, a truly historic and well-deserved goal.”
It’s worth noting that Benfica could face Real Madrid again in the Round of 16 playoffs after the Spanish giants finished ninth and the Portuguese side 24th. The draw on Friday will determine whether Mourinho’s Benfica will be drawn against either Arbeloa or Bodø/Glimt.
