Real Madrid has expressed unwavering support for Vinicius Junior following Tuesday’s turbulent Champions League first-leg at Benfica, where the Brazilian’s goal celebration sparked a series of heated incidents.
Vini Jr opened the scoring in a 1-0 victory, but his reactions drew the ire of the home crowd, leading to a booking and a tense confrontation with Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni.
The situation escalated further when the Brazilian of Cameroonian descent reported alleged racial abuse to the referee, prompting a 10-minute suspension under UEFA protocols before the match resumed.
Speaking after the game, Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa made clear the club’s position on the matter.
“Ask the Benfica player what he said to Vini Jr. Everyone in the football world deserves an answer to that question, and that is all I can say. Zero tolerance for racism has to be absolute for us, and we cannot allow such things to happen on a football pitch in 2026,” Arbeloa said.
He emphasized his full belief in the Brazilian forward’s account and the importance of standing as a team in such situations. “I only asked him if he wanted to keep playing. We were by his side, and whatever decision he made, we were going to stand together. We must always support him and remain a team. I’ve always told them that we ride together and die together.”
Arbeloa also addressed the match suspension, noting the limits officials face in such situations. “The referee told me he didn’t hear anything and can’t do anything about these kinds of situations. Whatever decision Vini Jr. made, we are obviously by his side, and we cannot tolerate these types of attitudes or allow them to occur on a football pitch,” he explained.
While Arbeloa did not witness the controversial celebration, he praised Vini Jr.’s contribution and the team’s overall performance. “I didn’t see Vini Jr.’s celebration, but I did see the amazing goal. When José Mourinho finds out what happened and what his player said, he will be the first not to allow it. Zero tolerance for this, and very pleased with the team’s performance. All the players showed a very solid performance, and this is the Real Madrid we want to see.”
