Vini Jr issues statement in wake of tensions vs Benfica | OneFootball

Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior has spoken out in the wake of targeted remarks during Los Blancos' Champions League round of 16 playoff first-leg clash against Benfica.

Despite scoring the only goal during the 1-0 first-leg away win in Lisbon, the result was marred after play was halted when referee Francois Letexier issued anti-racism protocols.

In the aftermath of yet another example of the Brazilian international being on the receiving end of alleged racist remarks from players and fans, the Seleção talisman took to his personal social media account to speak out.

"Racists are, above all, cowards." he said. "They need to put their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are."

"But they have, by their side, protection from others who, theoretically, have the obligation to punish," he continued.

"Nothing that happened today is new in my life or in my family’s life. I received a yellow card for celebrating a goal. I still don’t understand why."

"On the other side, there was only a poorly executed protocol that was of no use. I don’t like to appear in situations like this, especially after a great victory when the headlines should be about Real Madrid, but it is necessary."

While it is unclear if any further punishment will be handed down by UEFA, what is clear is that the ongoing issues surrounding racism in football, which have been well-documented over the years by numerous prominent players and supporters, have yet to be properly addressed.

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