Match Context
Jose Mourinho, Benfica's coach, insisted that his side's injury problems are more damaging than Napoli's, who were due to meet them tonight in the Champions League group stage, matchday six.
And Mourinho, in remarks carried by the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, said: 'Napoli's bench is different; look at who plays and you forget who is missing, their change of system has made them a better team.'
The Portuguese coach acknowledged the importance of his injured list, but stressed that he does not like making excuses, saying: 'I have many absences, but I don't want to cry.'
Mourinho's remarks come as a dig at Napoli coach Antonio Conte, who frequently cites his team's injuries in recent times.
He added: 'We delivered an excellent performance against Chelsea and lost due to an own goal. The same happens in the league. We always lose because of individual errors, but the team is stronger tactically.'
He later said that he knows Napoli well, which may help his team but may not be decisive either.
He elaborated: 'They are a very strong team, having won two league titles in a short period. They now play completely differently, and I admire them more than ever.'
And the Portuguese coach concluded: 'Conte's teams never weaken; they are cohesive and tactically aware, and he always builds strong sides.'
Punchlines: If tears paid the bills, Conte would own a water park. And football is simple: two teams, twenty-two players, and one manager who refuses to shed a tear.
