Real Madrid go through as Bernabéu condemns racism and Mourinho stays out of sight | OneFootball

Real Madrid reached the last 16 on a jittery Bernabéu night shaped by an anti-racism message, a punished fascist salute, and José Mourinho apparently watching from Benfica’s bus.

History loomed, Madrid having failed before the last 16 only once, in 1962, against Anderlecht, and this was Mourinho’s first Bernabéu return since 2013. His first-leg red card kept him from the pre-match conference. El Periódico Mediterráneo reports Madrid set aside press box 6 with private security, but he did not appear and, after addressing his players, opted for a secluded spot, apparently the team bus.

Perhaps alongside him was Gianluca Prestianni, provisionally suspended by UEFA over alleged racist and homophobic insults towards Vinícius. Mbappé, out with a knee injury for more than two months, was absent, and television cameras did not find the Frenchman.

A banner reading 'No al racismo' covered the south stand, yet a supporter there performed a fascist salute. Madrid identified and expelled him during the match and opened disciplinary proceedings.

On the pitch the game entertained more than it convinced. Courtois was again decisive, even against friendly fire, pulling off one of the saves of his life from an Asencio effort, in a move that ended with Benfica’s goal.

Asencio later departed on a stretcher with his neck immobilised after a heavy clash with Camavinga, moments before Vinícius hit Madrid’s second to seal qualification. Sporting de Portugal or Manchester City await. Mourinho will watch the rest from home, or perhaps from a bus.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo