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Vinicius Accuses Benfica Player of Racist Abuse
Vinicius racist abuse halts Real Madrid vs Benfica match as Brazilian star alleges player used racial slur in Champions League clash
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior reported an incident of alleged racist abuse during Tuesday’s Champions League play-off first-leg match against Benfica, prompting a 10-minute halt in play.
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The 20-year-old Argentine midfielder Gianluca Prestianni, who was accused of calling Vinicius a “monkey,” denies the allegation.
The players temporarily left the pitch after Vinicius informed referee Francois Letexier of the incident. Benfica’s Prestianni covered his mouth during the confrontation, appearing to speak to Vinicius.
Vinicius, 25, has been a frequent target of racist abuse since joining Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018.
Previous incidents include an effigy being hung by Atletico fans in 2023 and repeated abuse by Valencia and Real Valladolid supporters, which led to historic hate-crime convictions in Spain.
“I’m not a victim of racism. I am a tormentor of racists,” Vinicius wrote on X in 2024, following one of the landmark convictions, adding that the ruling was “not for me. It’s for all black people.”
Team-mate Kylian Mbappe condemned the alleged abuse, calling for Prestianni to be barred from the competition.
“This guy doesn’t deserve to play in the Champions League again, that’s my opinion,” Mbappe said.
Benfica coach Jose Mourinho acknowledged the pattern of abuse Vinicius faces.
“There is something wrong because it happens in every stadium,” he said.
Observers note that Vinicius’ style of play provocative dribbling, direct engagement with opposition fans, and animated goal celebrations can inflame crowds.
During the Benfica match, he celebrated a brilliant goal by dancing near the corner flag, prompting fans to throw objects onto the pitch.
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Speaking out against racism has made Vinicius an even more visible target, but he continues to maintain his composure and fight against discrimination on and off the field.
The Opawole and Daniel families mourn the passing of their beloved matriarch, Chief Mrs. Sabainah Ibironke Opawole, née Osoba, who died peacefully after a brief illness on Thursday 2nd of July, 2026 at the age of 93.
Born on 23rd April 1933 to Princess Mariam Ladigbolu of the revered Ladigbolu family of Oyo Kingdom and the Late Rev. O. Osoba of Olodo Village, Abeokuta, the late Princess Sabainah lived a long and graceful life anchored in faith. She was a devoted Christian of the Baptist denomination until her passing, and her life stood as a quiet testament to devotion, family, and enduring values.
She is survived by several children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, including Her Excellency Yeye Olufunke Daniel, former First Lady of Ogun State and wife of Otunba Senator Gbenga Daniel. Her passing has drawn an outpouring of condolences from family, friends, and associates across Ogun State and beyond, many of whom remember her as a woman of grace, strength, and unshaken faith.
The family has confirmed that funeral arrangements will be announced publicly in due course, and has appealed for prayers and understanding as they navigate this period of loss.
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