Benfica 'wise to Ronaldo tricks'

by IAN LADYMAN

Last updated at 21:42pm on 4th December 2006


Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho last night stoked up the title rivalry with Manchester United by claiming his former club Benfica are wise to Cristiano Ronaldo’s con tricks.

Mourinho predicted the Portuguese side can end United’s Champions League challenge for the second season running, by denying them the point they need from their final Group F game to qualify for the last 16.

And he added that his compatriots would not be tricked by the United winger into conceding a penalty, much as Middlesbrough were on Saturday.

Mourinho said: "Benfica know Ronaldo well, they know how to deal against his game, so I think it is not so easy to get one of his penalties."

Choosing instead to concentrate on the admirable side of the winger’s personality, Benfica legend Eusebio also identified him as a man to be watched by his former side.

Eusebio, a member of the Benfica team who lost to United in the 1968 European Cup final at Wembley, said: "The key to the game will be in two aspects. The game will be won and lost depending on who wins the midfield battle and how Cristiano Ronaldo plays.

"Ronaldo is United’s most decisive and most important player. If we can cope with Ronaldo and keep him quiet then I think the outcome will be positive for us.

"For me, there is no doubt. Today, Cristiano Ronaldo is better than Wayne Rooney for United. If Ronaldo is not on the field — or not playing well — then I think it is immediately a totally different game for the English club."

Mourinho’s patriotic stance also extended to Porto, with whom he won both the UEFA Cup and Champions League. They entertain Arsenal tomorrow in a must-win game for the Gunners in Group G.

Despite admitting it would be better for Chelsea’s chances of a third Premiership title if United and Arsenal progressed in Europe, Mourinho said: "I must say I want Benfica and Porto to win. If not, I cannot go home!"

Mourinho added that, with the exception of the suspended John Terry, a rested Claude Makelele and a decision to put Ashley Cole on the bench, he would field an otherwise full strength team to try and ensure Chelsea, who have already qualified for the knockout stage, progress as Group A winners against Levski Sofia tonight.

He said: "The motivation is to finish first. The side who finish first play the second game at home and that can give you a little advantage."