No way Jose! Mourinho's return to Stamford Bridge ends in defeat as Chelsea edge Benfica

Jose Mourinho's highly anticipated return to Stamford Bridge was not enough to inspire Benfica as they fell to a slim defeat against Enzo Maresca's Chelsea.

Mourinho watched his Benfica side begin brightly at Stamford Bridge. Dodi Lukebakio’s low strike forced Robert Sanchez into action, the goalkeeper pushing it onto the post.

Chelsea grew into the contest, with Pedro Neto firing just wide before providing the cross that led to the opener, Alejandro Garnacho’s header back across goal deflecting in off Richard Ríos.

The Blues nearly doubled their lead before half-time when makeshift striker Tyrique George met Marc Cucurella’s pass but was denied by Anatoliy Trubin.

Benfica again started strongly after the restart, but the Blues defended resolutely.

However, their recent streak of indiscipline continued when João Pedro was dismissed for a second booking in stoppage time, their second red card in as many games, but the 10 men held firm.