Benfica manager José Mourinho insists that his side can still qualify for the knockout phase of this season's UEFA Champions League, despite losing their first three group-stage games.

The Portuguese giants were thumped 3–0 by Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Tuesday night, after losing their first two matches to Qarabag and Chelsea.

A brace from Harvey Barnes and a goal from Anthony Gordon gave Eddie Howe’s side a comprehensive home victory.

Speaking in his post-match reaction, the ‘Special One’ stated that his side can still progress to the next stage of the competition with 10 or 11 points.

“That was the only moment when they put pressure on their opponents. In the second half, the second goal killed the game,” the Portuguese tactician told the club’s official website.

“(It was) a good performance in the first half. It’s not easy to come here and play the way we did in the first half, creating four big chances, hitting the post, being the team that, in my opinion, was closer to winning.

“(We have) 15 points to play for, with three matches at home. We lost to Chelsea away, Newcastle away — which, in the end, wouldn’t be dramatic. I would say maybe ten, 11 are the points we need to qualify. So — game on.”

WDN