In a stunning turn of events, Jose Mourinho's Benfica pulled off a remarkable victory against Real Madrid, securing their spot in the Champions League play-offs. But this wasn't just any win; it was a dramatic, last-gasp triumph that left everyone in awe.
The stage was set for a memorable night in Lisbon. Mourinho, a legendary manager with a storied career, was seeking a rare first at this stage of his journey. And it was Anatoly Trubin who delivered an unforgettable moment, etching his name into Benfica's history.
Beating Real Madrid, a 15-time European champion, was no small feat. But Benfica needed more than just a win. In the dying moments of added time, they led 3-2, but their Champions League fate hung in the balance. One more goal was required, and it was goalkeeper Trubin who stepped up.
As the free-kick was awarded, Trubin surged forward, and what followed was pure pandemonium. The Estadio da Luz erupted as Trubin, in a wild charge, connected with a bullet header to score the decisive goal. The stadium nearly lifted off its foundations, and Mourinho couldn't contain his joy.
"It was a fantastic, historic goal," Mourinho exclaimed. "Beating Real Madrid is an incredible prestige for Benfica." Trubin's heroics were all the more remarkable considering he wasn't fully aware of the stakes. With 18 simultaneous league games on the final matchday, it's no wonder he was initially unsure of what his team needed.
Marseille were the unlucky victims, dropping out of the play-off places as Benfica snatched their spot. Trubin's naivety was evident moments before his goal, as he tried to waste time, unaware that Benfica were still heading out. But his intervention was nothing short of sensational.
Mourinho's return to Benfica in September hasn't been without its challenges. Appointed as 'The Special One' 25 years after a brief stint at the club, some questioned if the 63-year-old still had the magic touch. Despite remaining unbeaten in the league, Benfica sits third, trailing leaders Porto by 10 points, making Mourinho's ninth league title seem like a distant dream.
Their European campaign started disastrously, losing the first four games. Even wins over Ajax and Napoli seemed insufficient after a loss in the penultimate round. And their domestic cup run ended with a quarter-final loss to Porto, where Mourinho made his name two decades ago.
But Trubin's Champions League heroics were foreshadowed in that very game against Porto. Mourinho revealed that Trubin had come close to scoring in a similar fashion, only to be denied by a Porto player.
European football expert Julien Laurens highlighted the significance of this win for Mourinho, saying, "Everything hasn't really worked out for him since taking over. To win in such a way against Real Madrid, his former club, is massive." Mourinho's side had started poorly, but they showed resilience, and the miracle of their qualification was truly incredible.
Beating Madrid holds a special place in Mourinho's heart. "To win against Real Madrid is significant," he said, recalling his time at the Bernabeu from 2010 to 2013, where he battled Pep Guardiola's Barcelona and emerged victorious in La Liga.
Guardiola and his Manchester City players were keenly watching, hoping for a Benfica victory to secure their top-eight finish. Guardiola's reaction to Trubin's goal was priceless, as he questioned the goalkeeper's decision to go forward, unaware of Benfica's need for a goal.
Mourinho's next battle with Guardiola may have to wait, but he's relishing the chance to face Real Madrid again in February. With a 50% chance of a rematch, the stage is set for another dramatic encounter.
And here's where it gets intriguing: Mourinho could face Inter Milan, the club he led to Champions League glory in 2010. When asked about his preference, Mourinho playfully expressed his love for both cities, leaving the draw open to speculation.
Few would doubt Mourinho's ability to conjure something special at the Bernabeu or San Siro. But matching Trubin's magical moment? That might be a challenge even for Mourinho's scriptwriters.
Catch the highlights of this Champions League thriller on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app. Prepare to be amazed by the drama that unfolded in Lisbon!
