Champions League play-offs: Vinícius secures a crucial win for Real against Benfica! | OneFootball

Champions League: Real claim victory in Lisbon

Champions League play-offs: Vinícius secures a crucial win for Real against Benfica!

Real Madrid took a major step toward qualification by clinching a precious 1-0 victory on Benfica's home turf on Tuesday night at the Estádio da Luz, in the first leg of the Champions League play-offs. In a tense and tightly contested encounter, the Madrid side showed total composure to leave Lisbon with a crucial win.

Vinícius decisive as tensions flare

The only goal of the night came in the 50th minute from Vinícius Júnior, who curled a right-footed shot home after cutting inside from the left. That moment of individual brilliance was enough to tip the balance in this opening leg, despite a resolute display from the Lisbon hosts.

The match was marked by a major incident around the hour mark, when Vinícius briefly left the pitch after accusing Gianluca Prestianni of racist remarks. The contest was halted for nearly ten minutes before play resumed in a charged atmosphere. Both Courtois and Trubin had major saves in the first half and played pivotal roles in a contest that Real ultimately managed to lock down.