Real Madrid Edges Benfica Amidst Racism Allegations

Alanbatnews -

Real Madrid secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Benfica in a Champions League match overshadowed by allegations of racism against Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni by Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior.

The alleged incident occurred shortly after Vinicius Junior scored the decisive goal, prompting referee Francois Letexier to halt the game for 11 minutes, activating FIFA's anti-racism protocol.

Television footage showed Prestianni covering his mouth before making a comment interpreted by Vinicius and his teammates as a racial slur. Vinicius, who has been a frequent target of racist abuse in Spanish matches, reacted strongly to the alleged insult.

Real Madrid captain Federico Valverde expressed disbelief that stadium cameras failed to capture the alleged racist remark. He noted the suspicious nature of Prestianni covering his mouth, suggesting it indicated wrongdoing. Valverde affirmed his pride in Vinicius and his exceptional performance, emphasizing the ongoing fight against racism in football.

The match itself saw Benfica start strongly before Real Madrid gradually took control. Benfica appeared content with counter-attacks, while Real Madrid's Thibaut Courtois made a remarkable save to deny Fredrik Aursnes in the 25th minute. Real Madrid finished the first half strongly, with Benfica's goalkeeper Anatoli Trubin denying Kylian Mbappe and Arda Guler.

Vinicius Junior scored the only goal five minutes after halftime. Mbappe passed to Vinicius on the left, who then cut inside and curled a stunning shot into the top corner.

Vinicius celebrated with a dance near the corner flag, earning a yellow card for excessive celebration. A heated exchange with Prestianni followed, leading to referee Letexier pausing the match and initiating the anti-racism protocol. Real Madrid players threatened to leave the pitch before play eventually resumed after 11 minutes.

Tensions remained high, with Vinicius facing jeers whenever he touched the ball. Mbappe was visibly angered, reportedly calling Prestianni a "f***ing racist" after the restart.

The animosity escalated in the 85th minute when Vinicius fouled Richard Rios, prompting Benfica coach Jose Mourinho to demand a second yellow card for the Brazilian. Mourinho himself received a yellow card for his protests, quickly followed by a second, resulting in his ejection.

Despite Benfica's late pressure, Real Madrid held on for the win, securing a slight advantage ahead of the return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.