Chelsea vs Benfica: Mourinho Returns to Stamford Bridge in Champions League Showdown

Match Details

• Date: September 30, 2025
• Time: 8:00 PM UK Time
• Venue: Stamford Bridge, London

All eyes will be on Stamford Bridge as Chelsea host Benfica in the UEFA Champions League. The spotlight falls on José Mourinho, who makes a high-profile return to West London with the Portuguese champions. Mourinho’s legacy at Chelsea includes two successful spells (2004–2007, 2013–2015), during which he guided the club to three Premier League titles.

Team News

Chelsea

• Injuries: Cole Palmer (groin), Levi Colwill (knee), Liam Delap (thigh), Tosin Adarabioyo (calf), Wesley Fofana (head).
• Doubts: Moisés Caicedo, João Pedro, Andrey Santos.
• Boost: Facundo Buonanotte returns after missing the Brighton game due to ineligibility.

Benfica

• Injuries: Manu Silva (ACL), Alexander Bah (ACL), Bruma (Achilles – out for the season).
• Unavailable: Gianluca Prestianni (international duty).
• Boost: Enzo Barrenechea returns from suspension.

Predicted Lineups

Chelsea
Sánchez; Gusto, Chalobah, Badiashile, Cucurella; Lavia, Caicedo; Estevão, Fernández, Garnacho; Pedro

Benfica
Trubin; Dedić, Otamendi, A. Silva, Dahl; Barrenechea, Ríos; Lukebakio, Sudakov, Schjelderup; Pavlidis

Head-to-Head Record

• Total Meetings: 4
• Chelsea Wins: 4
• Benfica Wins: 0
• Draws: 0

Chelsea have dominated the fixture historically, but Champions League nights are rarely predictable—especially with Mourinho in the opposing dugout.

Match Outlook

Chelsea’s strong home record and perfect history against Benfica give them the edge heading into this clash. However, Mourinho’s tactical nous and Benfica’s resilience add intrigue to what could be a cagey battle under the lights at Stamford Bridge.

Prediction

⚽ Chelsea 2–1 Benfica

Chelsea are favorites to edge the tie, but Mourinho’s return could spring a surprise—making this one of the standout fixtures of the group stage.