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Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League clash away to Benfica was thrown into turmoil after Vinícius Júnior was allegedly subjected to racial abuse and struck by an object from the stands.
The Brazilian forward had just scored the opening — and ultimately decisive — goal when tempers flared inside the Estádio da Luz.
Booking sparks confrontation
Following his goal, Vinícius was shown a yellow card by referee François Letexier for a celebration that appeared to antagonise the home crowd.
As he walked back towards the centre circle with his teammates, the 25-year-old became visibly agitated after an exchange on the pitch. Vinícius directed his anger towards Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni, who was seen covering his mouth while speaking to the Madrid star.
Match halted over alleged racial abuse
Moments later, Letexier stopped play and made the crossed-arms gesture, a recognised signal indicating a report of racial abuse, after a brief discussion with Vinícius.
The decision triggered chaotic scenes, with tensions boiling over among players and coaching staff from both sides.
A member of Benfica’s technical team was shown a red card as confrontations escalated, although the specific reason for the dismissal remains unclear.
Mourinho intervenes as tempers boil
Former Real Madrid manager and current Benfica head coach José Mourinho was seen on the pitch speaking directly to Vinícius in an apparent attempt to calm the situation.
The Brazilian winger was eventually escorted to the away dugout as the match was suspended for approximately 10 minutes, while players and officials crowded the pitch.
Play later resumed amid heightened security, but the incident once again cast a spotlight on ongoing concerns surrounding racism in European football.
