Numbers don't lie: Bruno Lage's ghost still haunts Benfica | OneFootball

As the season enters its final stretch, with only two matchdays left before the end of the league campaign, the numbers always tell the truth and José Mourinho has still not completely shaken off the shadow of his predecessor, in this case Bruno Lage, when Benfica’s points tally is taken into account.

According to what was considered by Record newspaper, the Special One, heading into matchday 31 — that is, without counting the draw in Famalicão — had recorded one point fewer (72) than his fellow Setúbal native, who by the 30th round of last season had a better tally (73), despite Benfica being in the same position, namely second place.

It should be remembered that José Mourinho replaced Bruno Lage at the start of this season, after the 49-year-old coach had conceded a draw against Santa Clara in the league and a Champions League defeat against Qarabag. However, the truth is that the Special One, despite the time he was given to build routines, has not left Benfica in a better position.

It is true that José Mourinho holds unbeaten status in the league, since he has not yet suffered any defeat. However, the 10 draws Benfica have already conceded have proved fatal to the Eagles’ standings, causing them to fall well behind in the title race, which has already been won by Porto.

It is worth mentioning that Benfica now head into the penultimate round with 76 points, where they will face Braga at the Estádio da Luz. Without Richard Ríos and Nicolás Otamendi, due to suspension, the Eagles will have the difficult task of holding on to second place, which grants access to the 3rd qualifying round of the Champions League.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.