sports

Vinicius Jr. Accuses Benfica Player Of Racism

Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. accused Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni of racism after scoring in their Champions League playoff, triggering a 10-minute match delay.

After scoring a brilliant opener for Real Madrid against Benfica in the Champions League playoff first leg, Vinicius Jr.'s celebration sparked ugly scenes. The Brazilian winger was confronted by Benfica players and shown a yellow card for excessive celebration before reporting racism to the referee.

The official stopped the game under FIFA's racism protocol, with Vinicius sitting on the bench refusing to play on. A Benfica staff member received a red card amid various skirmishes. Later in the match, Vinicius was hit by an object thrown from the crowd.