Benfica vs Real Madrid: Alexander-Arnold outraged by racism

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·18 février 2026

Benfica vs Real Madrid: Alexander-Arnold outraged by racism

"A shame for football" after the altercation between Vinícius Júnior and Gianluca Prestianni

Benfica vs Real Madrid: Alexander-Arnold outraged by racism

Vidéos OneFootball

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Real Madrid defender, responded forcefully after his teammate Vinícius Júnior was subjected to racist abuse during the match against Benfica.

The incident occurred after Vinícius scored. According to reports, Gianluca Prestianni allegedly made a racist remark while covering his mouth with his shirt. The match was briefly halted, and an investigation is underway. Alexander-Arnold voiced his outrage:

What happened tonight is a shame for football. It tainted what should have been a brilliant performance after a stunning goal.

He recalled that Vinícius had previously been targeted by racism:

Vini has already faced this kind of abuse several times. Ruining a night like this for our team is unacceptable. There is no place for this in football or in society. It's disgusting.

The second leg will take place on February 25 at the Santiago Bernabéu, amidst heightened media and sporting pressure.

Trent Alexander-Arnold: "I can't comment too much on it as it is an ongoing investigation at this point. I think what has happened tonight is a disgrace to football and overshadowed the performance as well after an amazing goal. "Vini has been subject to this a few times https://t.co/q07JlX9zkS
– mercredi 18 février 2026