Benfica Faces Crucial Final Against Ajax in High-Stakes European Showdown

Benfica faces a crucial match against Ajax in the Champions League group stage that is described by coach José Mourinho as a “final that must be won.” Both teams are in identical positions in the group, making this encounter decisive for their hopes of advancing to the next stage. Mourinho emphasizes the importance of the game, stating, “I think so (it is a final). Both teams are exactly in the same situation, and I did not bother to check Ajax’s calendar after this match. This game is fundamental for both teams.”

Benfica has struggled in recent fixtures, suffering defeats against Qarabag, Bayer Leverkusen, Chelsea, and Newcastle. The team still needs to face Napoli, Juventus, and Real Madrid, making the path to qualification challenging. Mourinho estimates that Benfica requires at least nine points from the remaining four games to secure progression. He considers the game against Ajax the most accessible of these matches, hence the significance of capitalizing on this opportunity.

Historically, Benfica and Ajax have met nine times, with Benfica winning twice, Ajax winning four times, and three matches ending in draws. Their last encounter in the Champions League round of 16 saw Benfica advance after a 2-2 home draw and a 1-0 away victory. Mourinho’s record versus Ajax is impressive, with seven wins in seven matches, although he downplays this statistic considering recent trips to the Netherlands have yielded no victories.

Benfica’s squad for this fixture includes promising young talent Rodrigo Rêgo, who recently debuted with the senior team and returns to the European squad. Another notable inclusion is Manu Silva, a midfielder making a return from a long injury layoff. Mourinho plans to introduce Silva cautiously from the bench to manage his competitive rhythm.

The game will take place at the Johan Cruijff Arena in Amsterdam, with kickoff scheduled for 18:45 local time. German referee Sven Jablonski will officiate the match, marking an important moment for both teams in this critical phase of the competition.