Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League clash with Benfica was marred by ugly scenes that ensued after Vinicius Junior's superb strike. The Brazilian attacker netted in the second half and his celebrations riled up the opposition.
An incident occured between Vinicius and Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni. The Argentine is seen covering his mouth with his shirt but saying something to the Brazilian.
Vinicius reacted furiously and went straight to the referee and accused Prestianni of racism. The game was paused and the official implemented the racism protocol while Madrid's star sat on the bench and refused to play on.
The game eventually resumed but it was a heated affair that even ended in Jose Mourinho being sent off. It's now been revealed what Vinicius is thought to have accused the Argentine of saying.
Madrid Universal claim that Vinicius told referee Francois Letexier that Prestianni had called him a monkey. He said: "He said monkey. He said monkey."
The response was shameful from UEFA as the player was allowed to continue playing despite being accused of racism. The game was stopped for about 10 minutes and Kylian Mbappe was seen furiously confronting Prestianni.
🚨🛑 Vinicius Jr tells the referee and then José Mourinho that Gianluca Prestianni has racially abused him.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 17, 2026
Vini said Prestianni racially insulted while covering his mouth with the shirt.@JosePadi_ 🎥 pic.twitter.com/ffhgLgWB1P
Benfica fans all cheered Prestianni when he was subbed off at the Estadio da Luz. It was another damning night for UEFA, who must explain why the player was allowed to continue playing.
Disgusting response to Vinicius racist abuse
Vinicius was constantly booed and whistled by the home fans and was well within his rights to celebrate his goal in front of them. Even if it was provoking it shouldn't lead to racism.
The 25-year-old was even booked during the drama for his celebration which is ludicrous given he was the victim of racist abuse. UEFA are supposedly big on stamping out racism but when it occurs in their biggest competition they cower away.
Vinicius showed the right mentality to play on and ensure racism doesn't win. An investigation must take place over Prestianni's alleged comments and appropriate action is needed.
Madrid will now take a 1-0 lead back to the Bernabeu in the second leg of the Champions League playoff. It's fitting that the winning goal on the night came from the Brazilian winger.
Vinicius can also look forward to getting back to La Liga action with his side now top of the table after Barcelona's 2-1 loss to Girona on Monday. Alvaro Arbeloa's side face Osasuna on Saturday (February 21st).