Real Madrid booked their place in the Champions League last 16 with a 2–1 victory over Benfica on Wednesday night, sealing a 3–1 aggregate win in a tie overshadowed by allegations of racial abuse.
Vinícius Júnior scored the decisive goal at the Santiago Bernabéu, capping a tense evening following last week’s first leg in Lisbon, which was marred by an alleged racist remark directed at him by Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni. The player denies the accusation, and UEFA’s investigation remains ongoing.
Madrid displayed a large “No to racism” banner inside the stadium before kick-off, underlining the significance of the issue hanging over the fixture. Prestianni was absent after his appeal against a provisional one-match suspension was rejected earlier in the day.
Benfica, managed by José Mourinho, made a bright start and stunned the hosts in the 14th minute. Defender Raúl Asencio inadvertently diverted the ball towards his own goal, and although Thibaut Courtois made the initial save, Rafa Silva reacted quickest to bundle home from close range.
Madrid responded almost immediately. Two minutes later, Aurélien Tchouaméni struck from the edge of the area after a surging run and cross from Federico Valverde, restoring parity on the night.
The visitors continued to threaten, with Courtois producing a fine save to deny Richard Ríos before the interval. Silva also rattled the crossbar with a deflected effort as Benfica pressed for a second.
Real Madrid thought they had taken the lead when Arda Güler converted after Gonzalo García’s effort was blocked, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review for offside. Madrid were also dealt a blow when Asencio was stretchered off after a collision with Eduardo Camavinga.
Despite Benfica’s spirited display, it was fitting that Vinícius settled the contest. In the 80th minute, Valverde threaded a precise pass through the defence, sending the Brazilian clear on goal. He kept his composure to slide a low finish beyond goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin, effectively ending the tie.
Vinícius celebrated in front of the home supporters, reprising the dance that had drawn attention in the first leg. This time, however, the atmosphere was one of jubilation as thousands rose to acclaim the 25-year-old, whose goal confirmed Madrid’s progress.
For Mourinho, it was a frustrating return to the Bernabéu — his first since managing Madrid between 2010 and 2013 — and he was forced to watch from the stands due to suspension. His side had competed fiercely but ultimately fell short against the record 15-time European champions.
