Benfica fires Bruno Lage after Qarabag defeat, Mourinho in talks

Benfica moved swiftly to dismiss head coach Bruno Lage on Tuesday night after a shock 3-2 home defeat to Qarabag in their Champions League opener and are in advanced talks to bring back José Mourinho, according to multiple reports. The decision came hours after the Portuguese giants surrendered a 2-0 lead at the Estadio da Luz, prompting club officials to act amid mounting frustration over the team’s form this season.

Club president Rui Costa confirmed Lage’s sacking at a late postmatch news conference, saying he believed “this is the time for a change, precisely to avoid compromising the season.” Costa added that the incoming coach “must be a winning coach” capable of restoring the standards the club demands, according to the statement reported by the club. Benfica had already been under pressure domestically, sitting sixth in the Liga Portugal after a string of poor results that included a 1-1 draw with 10-man Santa Clara at the weekend.

Reports that Mourinho is set to replace Lage gained traction quickly. Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano said negotiations were at an advanced stage, while the PA news agency reported that the 62-year-old could return to the club but noted...