Champions League game halted after after Vinicius allegedly racially abused by Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni. Benfica boss Jose Mourinho has been criticised for suggesting Vinicius had provoked the abuse with his celebration. Vinicius' Real Madrid team-mate, Kylian Mbappe, said after the game that he and other Benfica players heard what Prestianni said to Vinicius. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior has been subjected to a number of racist insults prior to the alleged incident at Benfica. "Focusing on Vinicius Jr's goal celebration or the history of the club, instead of acknowledging the report, is a form of gaslighting.

Source: Sky sports February 18, 2026 16:16 UTC