A Champions League match between Real Madrid and Benfica was temporarily halted after Vinicius Junior reported receiving a racial slur from opponent Gianluca Prestianni.
Real Madrid’s Champions League victory over Benfica was overshadowed by a ten-minute suspension following alleged racist abuse directed at Vinicius Junior.
The Brazilian forward, who scored the decisive 1-0 goal, refused to continue after reporting a slur by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni.
Referee François Letexier enacted UEFA protocols as tensions flared at the Estadio da Luz, leaving the match’s completion in temporary doubt.
The situation remained volatile as Jose Mourinho attempted to mediate before eventually receiving a red card for an outburst toward officials.
Regarding the hostile atmosphere, Alan Shearer noted, “Calm heads are needed because you can hear the crowd going after the players – as tough as that may be.”
While play eventually resumed, the incident has sparked fresh outrage regarding player safety and discrimination.