Sports
UCL: Vinicius strike seals Real Madrid 1-0 win over Benfica amid racism drama
Real Madrid edged past Benfica 1-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League knockout play-off at the Estádio da Luz on Tuesday, thanks to a stunning goal from Vinicius Junior.
However, the match was overshadowed by allegations of racist abuse directed at the Brazilian winger, forcing an 11-minute suspension shortly after his strike.
The first half was a lively, end-to-end affair, ending goalless despite several chances. Madrid dominated spells, with Kylian Mbappé, Arda Güler, and Vinicius testing Anatoliy Trubin, while Benfica responded through Gianluca Prestianni, Rafa Silva, and Fredrik Aursnes. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was decisive in keeping the match level.
The breakthrough came five minutes into the second half. Vinicius collected the ball on the left, beat Amar Dedic, and unleashed a brilliant right-footed shot from the edge of the area into the top-right corner, leaving Trubin helpless.
Moments later, the game was paused after Vinicius reported alleged racist remarks, reportedly from an exchange near the corner flag involving Prestianni. Referee François Letexier invoked UEFA’s anti-racism protocol, halting play for around 10 to 11 minutes amid reports of discriminatory chants from sections of the Benfica crowd.
Tensions continued after play resumed. Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho was dismissed from the technical area after receiving two yellow cards, one while off the pitch. Vinicius was booked for his goal celebration, and Mbappé also received a caution.
Late substitutions, including Brahim Diaz for Güler and Thiago Pitarch for Eduardo Camavinga, helped Madrid withstand Benfica’s late pressure, with attempts from Sidny Lopes Cabral and others unable to break through.
The first-leg victory gives Madrid a slender advantage heading into the return match at the Santiago Bernabéu, but the lingering concerns over the racist incidents will remain a talking point ahead of the second leg.
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