Mourinho's Old Trafford celebrations remembered
Monday, March 9, 2015
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It is 11 years since FC Porto boss José Mourinho's unforgettable celebration at Manchester United FC's Old Trafford – an eyewitness recalls the drama of the occasion.
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The UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg: FC Porto are a minute away from elimination against Manchester United FC. Carlos Cardoso, who was at Old Trafford that night, picks up the story ...
The game looked to be dead, the dream appeared to be over – then came Costinha's goal, José Mourinho's celebration and a night I will never forget.
I had a perfect view of the Porto dugout and my first instinct was to gaze in that direction. I can still picture Mourinho running down the Old Trafford touchline with his arms aloft. I recall former Manchester United keeper Peter Schmiechel, who was sitting in front of me working for radio, turning around and giving me the 'stare'! Sat beside me was a Portuguese radio figure whose commentary will forever be tainted by my exuberant reaction. It is not difficult to identify me on that audio.
I was working on a freelance basis for the official Porto travel agency at the time and was responsible for ensuring the needs were met of all press travelling with the party. I was with them every step of the way: at training the day before games, at the security meetings, at press conferences, at the match itself, in the mixed zone. We had travelled to England on this occasion more in hope than expectation.
Because of my role, I had a close connection not only with most of the Portuguese media, but also with those at Porto thanks to a relationship which extended well beyond 2004. I was even fortunate enough to work with Mourinho, particularly on these UEFA Champions League assignments when we were away from home.
You could tell that he had something extra – he was different. He had an extraordinary ability to communicate, combining professionalism with a calmness that filtered down to all his staff. It is impossible to win without friends, and Mourinho had plenty at the club – he protected his boys from everything, hence his desperation to celebrate with them on nights like this! I remember it like it was yesterday.
Carlos Cardoso worked for Porto in various roles until 2012; he is still in the tourism industry today.
