DPA SPORTS
Published February 18,2026
Subscribe
Real Madrid’s Champions League last 16 play-off atBenfica was suspended for a time early in the second half on Tuesday afterVinicius Juniorscored a superb goal and then indicated to the referee that something was amiss.
The referee then signalled that the game was suspended and Vinicius went to sit on the Madrid bench. The referee then issued a red card to a member of the Benfica coaching staff.
There were reports that racist abuse had been heard and UEFA’s ant-racism protocol had been activated. Vinicius was in deep conversation with Benfica coach and former Madrid boss Jose Mourinho.
The game then kicked off again after around a 10 minute stoppage, with the Brazil forward back on the pitch but being booed by the home fans.
ANEWS
About the Author
