Jose Mourinho involved in fight with 'police forced to intervene'

Police and stadium stewards were forced to step in after Jose Mourinho became embroiled in a confrontation with Famalicao defender Pedro Bondo following Benfica's damaging 2-2 draw.

According to Portuguese outlet Record, the Benfica manager was left incensed after the match and clashed with the full-back in the tunnel area.

The altercation reportedly escalated to such a degree that security personnel and police officers had to intervene, with the situation only being defused when players and staff from both clubs stepped between the two parties.

The result proved costly for Benfica's European ambitions, as they surrendered a two-goal advantage in Porto, handing Sporting an opportunity to reclaim second position in the league standings.

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Benfica's grievances extended beyond the tunnel incident, with the club convinced they were denied a clear penalty during the match and that defender Nicolas Otamendi was unjustly dismissed.

In a pointed response to the officiating, the club's social media accounts took a sarcastic swipe at the match officials.

"Benfica offers the player of the match award to referee Gustavo Correia and the rest of the refereeing team," the club posted, marking another occasion this season where their online channels have courted controversy.

Mourinho struck a more measured tone in his post-match remarks, offering praise to champions Porto whilst maintaining belief in his squad's resilience.

"My assessment is that, as we approach the end of the championship, this game says a lot about what this championship has been like," the Portuguese coach stated.

"I want to congratulate FC Porto for being a worthy champion, I want to congratulate my players for their bravery up to today, especially today."

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Despite the setback, the former Chelsea and Manchester United boss remained defiant about Benfica's prospects of securing Champions League qualification.

"And we will give it our all to try for the miracle of finishing in second place and ahead of Sporting. I think we will succeed," he added.

Club president Rui Costa delivered a far more direct attack on the officiating, making explosive accusations against referee Gustavo Correia.

"I want to express my indignation, and that of all Benfica fans, for everything that happened here today," Costa told reporters.

The former Portugal international accused the official of attempting to derail Benfica's Champions League qualification bid, stating bluntly: "This man came here to harm Benfica."

Costa highlighted what he described as an obvious penalty that should have extended their lead to 3-0, contrasting the decision with a softer spot-kick awarded against Casa Pia earlier in the campaign.

"Nobody has the right to decide championships or standings except the players and coaches," he insisted.

It is currently unclear if Mourinho will remain as Benfica manager next season, with rumours rife that a sensational return to Real Madrid could be on the cards. The 63-year-old previously managed the Spanish titans between 2010 and 2013, winning titles such as LaLiga and the Copa del Rey during that time.

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