Mourinho Denies Ball Kick, Blasts Porto ‘Traitor’ Taunts

Jose Mourinho has hit back at the referee’s decision to send him off during Benfica’s thrilling 2-2 draw with FC Porto in the Primeira Liga on Sunday, insisting he was not aiming the ball at the opposition bench.

The Special One was shown a red card in the 91st minute after a late equaliser sparked chaos on the touchline, leading to a heated clash with Porto’s coaching staff. As previously reported by NaijaChoice News, Benfica fought back from two goals down to snatch a point against the league leaders in a match packed with drama.

In his post-match interview, Mourinho firmly rejected the referee’s claim that he had kicked the ball towards Porto’s bench. “I wasn’t targeting their bench,” the 63-year-old stated. “I kicked the ball to the stands to give lucky fans a chance to get a match ball.”

He added that this is something he often does after Benfica score at home, a gesture meant to reward supporters rather than provoke the away team.

The dismissal came after Mourinho exchanged words with Porto assistant Luis ‘Lucho’ Gonzalez (referred to in some reports as Lino Gondinho), who Mourinho accused of repeatedly insulting him during the game. “He called me a traitor 50 times,” Mourinho revealed. “I would like him to explain what I have betrayed. Because I gave all my heart and soul to Porto.”

Mourinho, who guided Porto to UEFA Champions League glory in 2004 and two league titles before moving to Chelsea, took particular offence at the “traitor” label from a fellow professional. “I went to FC Porto, I gave my soul to FC Porto. I went around the world and gave 24 hours of my life every day. That’s called professionalism,” he explained.

The incident marked Mourinho’s second red card in three weeks, following his sending-off in Benfica’s Champions League tie against Real Madrid. Porto’s assistant was also dismissed after the exchange.

The draw leaves league leaders Porto four points clear of Sporting Lisbon and seven ahead of third-placed Benfica, with 27 points still to play for. Mourinho admitted recovering the gap would be “difficult” but insisted the title race remains alive mathematically.

Fans and pundits have been buzzing over the touchline drama, with the rivalry between the two giants once again delivering fireworks. Mourinho, who returned to Benfica last September, continues to polarise opinions but remains unapologetic in defending his passion for the game.