LISBON, Portugal – Real Madrid secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Benfica in the first leg of their Champions League play-off tie at the Estádio da Luz on Tuesday, placing them in a favorable position ahead of the return leg.
The match remained scoreless through a tense first half, characterized by strong defensive displays and notable performances from both goalkeepers. Benfica initiated the early pressure, seeking to capitalize on home advantage, but Real Madrid’s defense proved resilient.
The breakthrough arrived in the 57th minute when Vinícius Jr. Scored for Real Madrid. However, the moment was quickly overshadowed by controversy. Vinícius Jr. Immediately signaled to the referee, alleging that Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni had directed a racial slur towards him. Play was halted as officials convened to review the incident.
Despite the review, the referee opted not to take disciplinary action against Prestianni, and the match resumed. The decision drew immediate scrutiny, with questions arising about the adequacy of protocols for addressing alleged racism in football.
Benfica mounted a determined push for an equalizer in the closing stages, but Real Madrid’s defense held firm, protecting their slender lead. Álvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid’s manager, had emphasized the importance of winning, stating that the club’s “objective is not just eliminating Benfica, our objective is to win the Champions League,” according to comments reported by beinsports.com.
Arbeloa had also downplayed the significance of past encounters with Benfica and their manager, José Mourinho, stating, “I don’t think José can surprise me, I know perfectly well what he’s capable of,” as reported by ESPN. He insisted the match was “not about revenge” after Benfica’s 4-2 victory over Real Madrid in January that forced the play-off tie.
The second leg is scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Real Madrid will aim to complete the job and secure their place in the Champions League round of 16. The incident involving Vinícius Jr. Is likely to remain a focal point leading up to the return match, with potential for further investigation and debate.
