Own goal helps Chelsea edge past Benfica | OneFootball

Jose Mourinho’s return to Stamford Bridge ended on a sour note as Benfica fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Chelsea in the Champions League.

The only goal of the game came courtesy of an unfortunate own goal from Richard Rios midway through the first half.

The decisive moment arose when Pedro Neto floated a cross to Alejandro Garnacho at the far post. Garnacho stretched to redirect the ball, only for Rios to inadvertently poke it past his own goalkeeper, Anatoliy Trubin, giving Chelsea the lead.

The Blues struggled to find rhythm and creativity throughout, operating without a recognised striker for long spells until Joao Pedro came off the bench. However, the substitute was sent off deep into stoppage time for a high foot, adding to a growing disciplinary record that now sees the Blues with three red cards in four matches.

Chances were rare on either side. Enzo Fernandez fired wide early on, while Dodi Lukebakio saw a shot tipped onto the post by Roberto Sanchez.

Despite dominating possession and registering more attempts, Enzo Maresca's side rarely looked convincing, relying on the own goal to secure all three points.

Mourinho was warmly greeted by the Stamford Bridge faithful, but it was the misfortune of his new side rather than any spark from the Blues that decided the game.

Benfica, meanwhile, will rue missed chances and a night where a stronger showing could have yielded something from London.