At the pre-match press conference between Benfica and Ajax in the Champions League, Benfica coach Mourinho emphasized the importance of this game and expressed his views on the opponents he was about to face.

About the tactical analysis of Ajax

Mourinho: "When I read the Ajax coach's speech at the press conference, I realized that he is a good coach. Because the loopholes or shortcomings that we have found exposed in Ajax's recent games are exactly the problems he mentioned at the press conference. He said that they must improve in these areas. Therefore, they will improve: They They will press harder and play more directly; instead of passing back frequently or crossing the ball and spending a lot of time in the build-up phase, they will make more use of the speed of the wingers, who are fast, creative and capable. He also talked about the lack of numbers in the penalty area. All the loopholes we identified, he also identified, they will definitely become better."

On the importance of the game and mentality

Mourinho: "This is a crucial game. There are still 9 points to fight for in the last 3 games, and I think 9 points are enough to advance. But looking at our schedule, Naples, Juventus, Real Madrid, this game is extremely critical for us. I don't even want to say 'get points', I want to say 'win'."

"We must play tomorrow's game with a winning mentality. I believe them So it will be. But that doesn't mean the game has to be chaotic, disorganized or crazy. What's important is playing calmly, playing with your head, following the game plan strictly, and having the character to withstand the extra pressure that distinguishes a 'want to win' game from a 'must win' game."

What are your expectations for this game against an opponent who is arguably in the same position as Benfica in this Champions League?

Mourinho: "I think so. The two teams are in exactly the same situation. There is no doubt that this game is crucial for both sides. Looking at our schedule objectively, the next three games will not be easy. I think winning tomorrow is fundamental for us."

Have you seen the way Ajax is playing now?

Mourinho: "Yes, of course. They have good players and a coach who knows them very well. I would love for them to think it will be an easy game, but I don't think they will. They are realists and know it will be a tough battle."

What do you think is the biggest challenge in this game against Ajax?

Mourinho: "The biggest challenge is the responsibility of 'must win'. Wanting to win is one thing, having to win is another, it's different. For me personally, I always say to myself 'must win'. We have to maintain a balance: we know we must win, but we have to play with our brains, not just with emotion or passion. This is the biggest challenge for us."

About the role of Pavlidis

Muri Neo: "His importance lies in his own characteristics. He is a player who knows how to drop back between the lines and connect effectively. We are not a team that specializes in quick transitions. We need more coordination. He is very important to us. Goals are of course important, but Pavlidis is the kind of player who is still crucial to the team even if he does not score."

You don't care much about statistics, but you have a perfect record against Ajax, winning all 7 games. Is there any explanation for this?

Mourinho: "I don't know. The only thing I know is, and I think you also know, I was born in 1963. So you can imagine what Ajax meant to a kid like me back then. I have a deep respect for Ajax, its history, the teams it has, the championships it has won, and the legendary players that have emerged from generation to generation. I love playing against them because it makes me Thinking of a period in the past, when Ajax was a European giant that fascinated countless people. "

"I led Real Madrid to defeat Ajax. We were much better than them at that time; I also led Manchester United to defeat them in the Europa League final. What kind of players did Real Madrid have at that time? Benzema, Higuain, Di Maria, Ronaldo, that is the real Real Madrid, that is why we can win."