Vinicius Junior led Real Madrid past Benfica in the Champions League Round of 16 playoff round.
The Royal Club won the first leg 1-0 at the Estádio da Luz thanks to a Vinicius goal, in a match marred by unfortunate incidents after Benfica fans attacked the player because of his goal celebration, followed by accusations that Gianluca Prestini directed racist abuse at the Brazilian star.
In the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid overcame a one-goal deficit to win 2-1, thus securing their place in the Round of 16.
Benfica took the lead through Rafa Silva in the 14th minute, but Aurélien Tchouaméni equalized in the 16th minute. Vinicius Junior then dashed the visitors’ hopes with a stunning goal in the 80th minute.
🔥⚽فينيسيوس جونيور يضيف الهدف الثاني لريال مدريد#دوري_أبطال_أوروبا pic.twitter.com/omr0ubWWSM
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) February 25, 2026
After the goal, Vinicius went to the corner flag and repeated his celebration, which José Mourinho had deemed provocative. This was a clear message from the player that he didn’t care about anyone and that he would continue to celebrate as he pleased and fight against racism.
Real Madrid will face either Manchester City or Sporting Lisbon in the round of 16, with the opponent to be determined in Friday’s draw.
