Benfica vs Real Madrid: Los Blancos Secure Narrow Win Amid Vinícius Júnior Racism Controversy
Real Madrid CF edged past SL Benfica with a 1-0 victory in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff at Estadio da Luz.
Los Blancos delivered a disciplined away performance, securing a narrow but valuable advantage as they aim to reach the Round of 16. The match, however, was marked by a second-half suspension following an alleged racist remark directed at Vinícius Júnior.
Vinícius Júnior Scores the Decisive Goal
After a competitive benfica vs real madrid first half ended goalless, Real Madrid found the breakthrough early in the second period. In the 50th minute, Vinícius Júnior curled in a composed finish to give the visitors the lead.
The Brazilian’s strike ultimately proved decisive as Madrid maintained defensive solidity for the remainder of the contest. Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa’s men managed the tempo effectively and protected their slender advantage under increasing pressure from the hosts.
Anti-Racism Protocol Halts the Match
Shortly after scoring, Vinícius Júnior reported an alleged racist comment made by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni. Referee François Letexier responded by activating FIFA’s anti-racism protocol, leading to a suspension of approximately 10 to 11 minutes.
According to reports, television cameras captured Vinícius informing the referee about the alleged comment. Play resumed after the protocol procedures were followed, and the match continued without further interruption.
The incident overshadowed what had otherwise been a tightly contested European clash.
Tactical Adjustments Strengthen Madrid
Real Madrid showed improved defensive organization compared to earlier performances. With Kylian Mbappé returning to the lineup after missing the previous domestic fixture, Arbeloa reinforced the flanks by starting Trent Alexander-Arnold and Eduardo Camavinga.
These adjustments helped address earlier vulnerabilities out wide and limited Benfica’s attacking width. Madrid absorbed pressure efficiently and controlled key moments in the second half.
Despite Benfica’s efforts to equalize, the Spanish side remained compact and disciplined, ensuring they left Lisbon with a clean sheet and a crucial away win.
What the Result Means for the Second Leg
The 1-0 victory places Real Madrid in a strong position heading into the return leg. An away goal and defensive resilience provide momentum, though the tie remains finely balanced.
For Benfica, the narrow margin keeps qualification hopes alive, but they will need a response in the second leg to overturn the deficit.
Conclusion
Real Madrid secured a vital 1-0 win over Benfica in the Champions League playoff first leg, thanks to Vinícius Júnior’s second-half strike. While the result moves Los Blancos closer to the Round of 16, the match will also be remembered for the activation of the anti-racism protocol following allegations made by the Brazilian forward. With the tie still open, both teams now shift focus to the decisive return fixture.
FAQs
Vinícius Júnior scored the only goal of the match in the 50th minute.
The referee activated FIFA’s anti-racism protocol after Vinícius Júnior reported an alleged racist remark.
The game took place at Estadio da Luz in Lisbon, Portugal.
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