18.02.2026 00:30
In the UEFA Champions League, Real Madrid player Vinicius Jr left the field due to racist chants directed at him by Benfica fans after scoring a goal, and the referee stopped the match. Upon returning to the field, Vinicius Jr went to the referee and said that Benfica player Prestianni called him a 'monkey'.
The match between Benfica and Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League playoff round was overshadowed by a racist chant scandal.
VINICIUS SCORED, FELL VICTIM TO RACISM
Real Madrid took a 1-0 lead in Portugal with a fantastic shot from Vinicius Junior in the 51st minute. The Brazilian player received a yellow card for his exaggerated celebration after the goal. During this moment, Vinicius Jr left the field due to the racist chants directed at him by Benfica fans. Referee François Letexier stopped the match.
"HE SAID MONKEY"
Upon returning to the field, Vinicius Jr ran towards the referee and stated that Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni called him a 'monkey'. The match resumed after a break of about 10 minutes, but Benfica fans continued to boo Vinicius Junior after the game restarted.