Real Madrid's match against Benfica was suspended for 10 minutes after Vinicius Junior alleged that Gianluca Prestianni directed racist abuse towards him. He eventually decided to continue after lengthy discussions with his team-mates and Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa. Benfica manager Jose Mourinho defended his club's history, noting that legend Eusebio was black, while also criticising Vinicius’ celebration. He claimed that the Real Madrid forward "misinterpreted" a typical on-pitch provocation and expressed regret over threats he received from the opposition players. Vinicius Junior later took to Instagram to label his alleged abusers as "cowards," specifically noting that they cover their mouths with their shirts to hide their weakness.

Source: Express February 18, 2026 07:43 UTC