Jamie Carragher openly criticized José Mourinho following the Vinicius controversyVinicius Jr controversy at Benfica: Jamie Carragher slams José MourinhoThe first leg of the Champions League

Real Madrid's Champions League tie against Benfica was halted for 10 minutes after Vinicius Junior reported alleged racist abuse. A Real Madrid statement said Vinicius told the re

José Mourinho criticized Vinícius Júnior's goal celebration after the forward scored in Real Madrid's 1-0 Champions League win at Benfica, before a confrontation in which the player said he was racially abused.

Vinicius Junior spent several minutes sat on the bench after accusing an opposing player of making a racist remark.

Real Madrid players left the field and play was halted for 10 minutes during their Champions League clash with Benfica on Tuesday evening after Vinicius Junior reported alleged racist abuse from Gianl

Jose Mourinho, Gianluca Prestianni and Kylian Mbappe opens up about Vinicius Jr. controversy during Real Madrid vs. Benfica on Tuesday, February 17 2026.

Benfica boss Jose Mourinho has been accused of "justifying racism" following his comments on Vinicius Junior after Tuesday's Champions League between his side and Real Madrid. The game had to be halted for 10 minutes after the Brazil international alleged a racial slur had been directed at him by Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni after he had scored what turned out to be the winning goal.

Jose Mourinho's Benfica host Real Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff round tie.