Real Madrid reached the Champions League last 16 after defeating Benfica and delivered a statement beyond football. Midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni called the win a victory for everyone who stands against racism. He stressed that some moments carry greater importance than sport itself.
Vinicius Responds on the Pitch
During the first leg, Vinicius Jr alleged racial abuse from Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni. The Brazilian forward scored the only goal of that match. Prestianni denied the accusation. Authorities handed him a one-match suspension, which ruled him out of the return leg on Wednesday.
Supporters inside the stadium displayed a banner reading “no to racism” in Spanish before kick-off. Fans showed clear backing for Vinicius ahead of the decisive clash.
Real Madrid fell 1-0 behind on the night but responded with authority. Tchouameni scored the first-half equaliser. Vinicius added the second goal in the 80th minute. Real secured a 2-1 win and advanced with a 3-1 aggregate score.
“I think there are more important things than this match, than football,” Tchouameni said. “Vinicius keeps his confidence and stays focused on his job. The decision to suspend the boy for this match was right. This victory belongs to all of us.”
Alexander-Arnold Praises Vinicius’ Mentality
Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold said Vinicius appeared relaxed before the match. He described his team-mate as calm and composed.
“He did not need to score to send a message,” Alexander-Arnold said. “He never has to prove anything. He shows his quality again and again. He steps up when we need him most. He understands what he brings to this team.”
Vinicius celebrated his first-leg goal with a dance near the corner flag. He repeated the celebration after his decisive strike on Wednesday. The Brazilian later wrote on social media that the dance continues.
Former Chelsea forward Joe Cole praised his display on TNT Sports. “He was brilliant across both legs,” Cole said. “His finish was superb.”
Arbeloa and Courtois Applaud Key Moment
Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa welcomed the goal with visible joy. “I reacted with happiness because he scored a great goal,” Arbeloa said. “He deserved that moment.”
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois also celebrated the scene. “I’m happy that Vini keeps dancing,” Courtois said. “When he dances, he scores goals.”
The evening also marked the return of Jose Mourinho to Madrid’s stadium. He coached Real between 2010 and 2013. Suspension rules prevented him from sitting on the bench.
Mbappe Injury Clouds Celebration
The only setback for Real Madrid came before kick-off. Kylian Mbappe missed the match with a knee problem. The club expects him to spend time recovering.
“After yesterday’s training session, we spoke with the doctors,” Arbeloa said. “I also spoke with him directly. We agreed that he should stop and recover fully. He must return in top shape and without discomfort. Important matches await us.”
Arbeloa expressed cautious optimism about the injury. “I hope it is nothing serious,” he said. “I expect him back within days or weeks.”
