Flamengo back Vini Jr after racism allegation and tell him he is not alone | OneFootball

Flamengo have publicly backed Vini Jr after the Real Madrid forward reported racist abuse during Tuesday's Champions League play-off first leg at Benfica. The Brazilian came through Flamengo's academy.

The club said in a social media post that the issue was bigger than football, described his dance as genuine joy, insisted racism is not part of the game and told him he is not alone.

Vini Jr said he was racially abused shortly after scoring a superb goal to put Madrid ahead in the second half at Estádio da Luz in Lisbon. His celebration by the corner flag near an organised Benfica section prompted protests from home players and a melee, and French referee François Letexier booked him.

As play was set to restart, he reported racist behaviour by Argentine Gianluca Prestianni to the referee, and tempers flared again. Letexier activated UEFA's anti-racism protocol and halted the game for about 10 minutes.

Team-mates including Mbappé and Tchouaméni consoled him, while Benfica head coach José Mourinho also spoke to the forward. Staff from both benches argued during the stoppage.

Sections of the home crowd then chanted at the Brazilian and objects were thrown towards him. The match resumed, with Vini Jr jeered on every touch and Mbappé also loudly booed. The match report will carry Letexier's official account.

Source: Globo.com