Mourinho Reacts After Being Called ‘Traitor’ Following Heated Benfica–Porto Clash

Jose Mourinho has strongly criticised a member of FC Porto’s coaching staff after allegedly being called a “traitor” repeatedly following a tense 2–2 draw with SL Benfica in the Primeira Liga.

Benfica staged a dramatic comeback in the match, recovering from a 2–0 deficit. Substitute Leandro Barreiro scored the equaliser in the 88th minute, sparking wild celebrations and chaotic scenes near the touchline.

During the commotion, Mourinho was shown a red card after appearing to have an altercation with members of Porto’s coaching team.

Explaining the incident, Mourinho said the referee claimed he had kicked a ball toward the Porto bench, an accusation he strongly denied.

“The referee told me he sent me off because I kicked the ball toward the Porto bench, which is not true at all,” Mourinho said. “After goals, I sometimes kick the ball into the stands to celebrate with supporters and give it to a lucky fan. I may not have the best technique, but my intention was to send it to the crowd.”

Mourinho also revealed that tensions escalated in the tunnel after the match, where he claims a Porto assistant coach repeatedly insulted him.

“He called me a traitor about 50 times in the tunnel,” Mourinho stated. “I want to know — a traitor to what? When I was at Porto, I gave everything to the club. Later I worked at Chelsea, Inter, Real Madrid and many other places, dedicating my life fully to my profession.”
He added that criticism from fans is part of football, but hearing such words from a fellow professional was unacceptable.
“Fans insulting you is part of the game.

But when another professional calls you a traitor, I have to ask why. A traitor for giving my best to Benfica? I didn’t appreciate that.”
Mourinho previously enjoyed major success with Porto between 2002 and 2004, winning six trophies, including the 2003 UEFA Cup and the 2004 UEFA Champions League.

In September last year, he returned to Benfica — the club where he first began his managerial career in 2000 — after leaving Fenerbahce.