Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior was allegedly subjected to a racist remark by Benfica’s Argentine player Gianluca Prestianni during their UEFA Champions League playoff match on Tuesday, according to Spanish newspaper AS.
The alleged incident occurred after Vinicius scored the decisive goal in Madrid’s 1-0 first-leg win at Lisbon’s Estadio da Luz. The Brazilian netted with a solo effort five minutes into the second half and celebrated by dancing in front of Benfica’s home supporters near the corner flag.
His celebration angered the hosts, and referee Francois Letexier later booked Vinicius for inciting the crowd during his celebration. Many supporters responded by throwing missiles at the 25-year-old forward. Tensions escalated on the pitch as players from both sides clashed during the disruption.
It was during the chaos that Vinicius was involved in an exchange with Prestianni. Replays showed the Benfica winger lifting his shirt to cover his mouth before appearing to say something to the Madrid forward. It remains unclear exactly what, if anything, was said, but AS reports that Vinicius accused the Argentine player of calling him a ‘monkey’.
Vinicius approached Letexier to report the alleged remark, prompting a stoppage of about nine minutes early in the second half. After speaking briefly with the Madrid player, the referee raised his arms to form a cross — a gesture used to indicate that a player has been subjected to racist abuse during a UEFA match.
There were cheers from the fans as Vinicius left the field and sat on Madrid’s bench to show his disagreement, before later returning to the pitch. A member of Benfica’s coaching staff received a straight red card during the clash, and Mourinho was also sent off near the end of the match. He will miss the second leg at the Bernabeu due to suspension.