Follow usLos Blancos’ UCL playoff 1st leg victory at Benfica was paused for 10 minutes today, after Vini Jr. accused an Eagles player of racially abusing him.
The Brazilian forward netted the winning goal in the match in the 50th minute in Portugal, but then approached official Francois Letexier, who made the ‘arms-crossed’ gesture indicating that an accusation of racist abuse had been made.
The game at the Estadio da Luz was then put on hold, as Vinícius spoke with different players, coaches, including his opponent’s manager, Jose Mourinho.
Vini was also shown a yellow card after his goal, after he celebrated with a dance by the corner flag, and was then confronted by several opposition footballers.
The Eagles’ Argentine player, Gianluca Prestianni, was complaining to the Brazilian while covering his mouth with his jersey, before Vinicius suddenly pointed to him and ran toward the referee.
“According to the teammates that were close, they heard something racist,” Los Blancos midfielder Federico Valverde revealed after the end of the match. “It is ugly that this is still happening and that with all those cameras it wasn’t recorded.”
Real Madrid have the lead their dominance has deserved.
Vinicius Junior cut inside before unleashing a phenomenal strike that Anatoliy Trubin could do nothing about.
After being shown a yellow card for his celebration, Vinicius Jr appeared to allege reports of racist abuse —… pic.twitter.com/pwURamA6Kt
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) February 17, 2026
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