Benfica manager José Mourinho insists his side will not require a miracle to eliminate Real Madrid when the two European heavyweights meet in Tuesday’s Champions League play-off first leg.

The Portuguese club secured their place in dramatic fashion during the League Phase, with goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin famously scoring in a thrilling 4-2 victory over Real Madrid that saw Benfica advance on goal difference. While that night was described by many as miraculous, Mourinho believes progression over two legs will demand excellence rather than divine intervention.

“I don’t think Benfica needs a miracle to eliminate Real Madrid,” Mourinho said ahead of the clash. “We need to be at our absolute best, almost perfect. Real Madrid is Real Madrid — history, experience, ambition. There’s no comparison in that sense. The only similarity is that Real Madrid is huge and Benfica is huge. Beyond that, nothing is comparable. But football gives you the chance to win.”

Mourinho expects a strong response from the Spanish giants, whom he still considers the favourites to lift the trophy.

“I’m expecting the number one contender to win the Champions League,” he added. “After the match in Lisbon, their coach adjusted the structure and turned an unexpected defeat into three consecutive league victories. That tells you everything about their level.”

Benfica have received a timely boost ahead of the encounter, with Amar Dedic and Fredrik Aursnes both declared fit. Dedic missed the last four matches, while Aursnes sat out the recent win over Santa Clara.

“I can confirm both are available,” Mourinho said. “There’s still one more training session, so anything can happen, but from what I’ve seen they’re fit. Starters? If they’re in my plans, they start. Otherwise, they’re not even on the bench.”

Mourinho’s connection with Real Madrid remains strong following his three-year spell at the Santiago Bernabéu, where he won LaLiga and the Copa del Rey. Despite that bond, his focus is firmly on Benfica’s ambitions.

“I gave everything to Real Madrid. I did good things and bad things, but I gave everything,” he reflected. “When you leave a club like that, there’s always a bond. I left 12 years ago and I still feel respect from Madrid fans, just as I respect them.”

He dismissed speculation of a potential return, stressing his commitment to Benfica.

“I have another year on my contract here. There’s nothing with Real Madrid. Of course, I’d love to knock them out, but I also wish Alvaro Arbeloa success. He’s a very capable coach with strong Madrid spirit.”

Asked what could determine the outcome of the tie, Mourinho pointed to motivation and resilience.

“Beating Real Madrid once is already very hard. Doing it twice is harder, and three times even more so. I know what it means to face a wounded giant. Their objective is to win the Champions League, and that gives them even greater strength.

“But for us, the key is to enjoy it. It’s better to play against the great Real Madrid than against a lesser team. Let’s enjoy the game and aim for a result that keeps the tie alive for Madrid. There’s no pressure — only opportunity.”