International press react to Benfica v Real Madrid as Mourinho’s mastery praised | OneFootball

Benfica’s victory, which sealed a Champions play-off place, sent the international media into overdrive. In Spain, headlines focused on Real Madrid’s setback and lauded José Mourinho.

AS described a total collapse in Lisbon, saying Madrid were left to contest the play-off after a disastrous display against Benfica. It noted that two goals from Mbappé only cut a deserved defeat to the minimum, and praised a high press with quick vertical attacks.

Marca said a dominant Benfica secured play-off qualification, dismantling the Arbeloa effect. It also hailed Trubin’s historic night and wrote that, at the Luz, Madrid bade farewell to the top eight while exposing numerous flaws.

Mundo Deportivo judged it not a step back for the blancos but a complete disaster for Arbeloa’s team. Sport went further, casting the night as a master humbling an apprentice.

Gazzetta dello Sport spoke of Mourinho’s customary madness, saying De Zerbi was eliminated in the 97th minute by a goalkeeper’s goal. The paper also pointed to a possible reunion between Inter and the Special One.

Source: Glorioso 1904