Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho did not mince words while registering his displeasure concerning the quality of officiating during his side’s 2-1 victory over Hatayspor on Sunday.
Despite watching his team secure a dominant victory at the Ulker Fenerbahce Sukru Saracoglu Stadium, the vastly experienced Portuguese manager was far from pleased after the game.
In his post-match conference, Mourinho criticized the match officials for their performance, frustrated by the lack of decisions in his team’s favor. He also directed his ire at the press, openly accusing them of ‘hiding the truth.’
“We played well. We dominated the match,” he said. “We created clear positions. We couldn’t pass the ball in positions we called half-chances. Their goalkeeper was great. We lost the ball in the goals we missed. It’s strange that this match ended 2-1. This match could have been 6-7-8. I’m happy with the game but not because of the opportunities we missed.
“My players did their best. We worked hard for nine days. We achieved a clear victory. If the opponent’s colours were different, they could have been down to eight players. We know the ‘toxic’ league we play in. They know how to play against us, how to play against the opponent. There should have been five reds in Eyup and this match. This is the situation. Our players and our opponents know this. We have to continue on our way.
“Why are you [the Turkish media] hiding the truth? What are people afraid of in this country? What are you afraid of? I know you are a journalist, I could be a journalist too, okay, but what are you afraid of? Is the point difference due to the football played? Speak the truth. Don’t ask me!”
Mourinho’s Fenerbahce remain eight points behind runaway table toppers, and bitter rivals, Galatasaray, heading into their next Super Lig matchup against Konyaspor on Monday, January 13.
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
