Overview
- Referee François Letexier halted Benfica vs Real Madrid for roughly 10–11 minutes under anti‑racism protocol after Vinícius reported abuse.
- Vinícius and nearby teammates, including Kylian Mbappé, say Gianluca Prestianni called him a monkey, while the Benfica winger denies using racist language.
- Benfica released pitchside footage disputing Real Madrid’s account, arguing players could not have clearly heard the exchange at that distance.
- Home supporters jeered throughout and threw objects, with Vinícius struck by a bottle, as separate videos showed fans making racist gestures.
- FIFA and Brazil’s federation voiced support for Vinícius as criticism mounted over José Mourinho’s comments, and UEFA said proceedings may follow its review ahead of next week’s second leg in Madrid.