Vini Jr racially abused as referee halts Real Madrid v Benfica Champions League match

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·17 February 2026

Vini Jr racially abused as referee halts Real Madrid v Benfica Champions League match

Vini Jr was subjected to racist abuse and the referee halted Real Madrid’s Champions League tie at Benfica in Portugal on Tuesday.

According to Coluna Do Fla, the official activated the anti-racism protocol.

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The incident followed Vini Jr’s goal. Five minutes into the second half, the former Flamengo forward struck from outside the box and found the top corner.

He celebrated with Real Madrid team-mates at the corner flag. Benfica players took exception and moved in to confront him.

Amid the ensuing melee, Vini Jr raised the issue with the referee, who spoke to the players. After about 10 minutes of stoppage, they were instructed to return and the match restarted.

Source: Coluna Do Fla