Where to watch: Farense vs. Benfica

Jose Mourinho kicks off a make-or-break run for Benfica in the Portuguese Cup

On the topic of whether Jose Mourinho is to be a boom-or-bust in his surprise second spell with Benfica, then the next six weeks are going to be crucial for the Special One, starting with a Portuguese Cup game on Wednesday live on beIN SPORTS.

The Taça de Portugal is reaching the fifth-round stage, which features the final 16 teams in the competition. Benfica has been drawn against Farense, a team currently midtable in Portugal's second division, following relegation from the top-flight last season.

Portuguese Cup Fifth Round: A Must-Win for Benfica

Victory would allow Benfica to approach a demanding January with some breathing space, although pressure would remain high. The coming weeks present little margin for error as the club prepares for a series of decisive fixtures across multiple competitions.

Jose Mourinho Under the Spotlight in Faro

Beyond the cup tie, Benfica face a challenging schedule. Two must-win matches against Juventus and Real Madrid await in the Champions League if progression to the next round is to be secured. Before that, a final-four style contest in the Portuguese League Cup adds to the intensity of the calendar.

However, the immediate focus is the trip to Faro. The Farense vs Benfica clash will place a spotlight on Mourinho and could shape the narrative of Benfica’s season as the campaign enters a critical phase.