Real Madrid secured a 1-0 victory over Benfica in their UEFA Champions League playoff first leg. The match took place at Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on February 17, 2026. Vinicius Junior scored the decisive goal.
However an alleged racial abuse incident dominated the proceedings. Additionally Jose Mourinho faced dismissal from the touchline.
Vinicius Strikes Early in Second Half
Kylian Mbappe initiated a counter-attack five minutes after halftime. He passed to Vinicius Junior, the Real Madrid forward. Moreover Vinicius cut inside and curled a shot into the far corner. The goal gave Real Madrid the lead.
Celebration Turns Tense
Vinicius celebrated by dancing near the corner flag. He then confronted Gianluca Prestianni, the Benfica forward. Vinicius alleged that Prestianni used a racial slur and called him a “monkey.” Television cameras captured the exchange.
Referee Activates Protocol
Vinicius approached Francois Letexier, the referee. Letexier invoked FIFA’s anti-racism protocol with a crossed hands gesture. The game halted for 11 minutes. Vinicius sat on the bench and spoke with teammates. Moreover, he conversed with Mourinho on the sideline. Play resumed in the 60th minute after Vinicius returned.
Mourinho Receives Red Card
Tensions escalated further in the 86th minute. Jose Mourinho, the Benfica manager, complained about a non call on Vinicius. The referee issued Mourinho a second yellow card. Mourinho departed to the stands.
Post-Match Statements
Alvaro Arbeloa, the Real Madrid coach, addressed the abuse. “You will have to ask Benfica’s players about what happened. I think everyone can see what happened with Prestianni,” Arbeloa stated. He added, “We have to fight against this type of attitude. If we don’t respect each other then it is a problem.”
Trent Alexander-Arnold, the Real Madrid defender, condemned the event. “I can’t comment too much on it as it is an ongoing investigation at this point. I think what has happened tonight is a disgrace to football and overshadowed the performance as well after an amazing goal,”
Alexander-Arnold said. He continued, “Vini has been subject to this a few times throughout his career. To ruin a night like this for our team is a disgrace. There is no place for it in football or society. It is disgusting.”
Benfica fans threw objects onto the pitch. Officials added 12 minutes of stoppage time. Meanwhile Benfica pushed for an equalizer but managed only three shots on target. Real Madrid maintained their slim advantage ahead of the return leg at the Bernabeu.
