Vinicius winner seals Real win as Racism row halts Benfica clash

Vinicius Junior scored a stunning second-half winner as Real Madrid beat Benfica 1-0 in the Champions League play-off first leg in Lisbon, a match overshadowed by allegations of racist abuse that led to a 10-minute stoppage.

The Brazilian curled home the decisive goal in the 50th minute at the Estadio da Luz. Soon after, play was halted when Vinicius reported alleged racist remarks by Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni to referee Francois Letexier. Both teams briefly left the pitch before the match resumed.

Vinicius later said “racists are cowards” in a social media post, while Prestianni denied the allegation. Benfica backed their player, saying video footage did not support the claim. Jose Mourinho, Benfica’s manager, said he was told different versions of events and criticised Vinicius’ goal celebration. Mourinho was sent off late on and will miss the return leg in Madrid.

Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made key saves, while Kylian Mbappe and Trent Alexander-Arnold featured prominently as Real controlled much of the game. An object was also thrown from the crowd during stoppage time, striking Vinicius on the arm.

UEFA said it is reviewing reports from the match. The return leg will be played at the Santiago Bernabeu on 25 February.