In a stunning post-match interview, Jose Mourinho accused Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr of provoking opponents after the Brazilian star alleged racist abuse from Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during Tuesday’s Champions League play-off first leg. Vinicius scored a spectacular goal for Real’s 1-0 win in Lisbon, but his corner-flag celebration earned a yellow card and reportedly antagonized the home crowd. As he returned to the center circle, Prestianni allegedly made a remark while covering his mouth with his shirt, prompting Vinicius to report it to referee Francois Letexier. The game halted for 10 minutes, with Vinicius refusing to continue until the issue was addressed.
Mourinho’s Defense of Benfica
Mourinho, who was later sent off for protesting a potential second booking for Vinicius, defended Benfica by citing club legend Eusebio as proof against racism claims. He criticized Vinicius’s celebration as disrespectful and suggested the winger incites abuse in every stadium he plays. “When you score a goal like that, you celebrate in a respectful way,” Mourinho said, adding he wanted to remain independent and not believe either side without investigation.
Backlash and Vinicius’s Response
Experts and players condemned Mourinho’s remarks. Wayne Rooney called them unfair, Clarence Seedorf labeled them a “big mistake,” and Theo Walcott deemed them disappointing. Trent Alexander-Arnold called the incident a “disgrace to football.” Vinicius later released a statement branding racists as “cowards” and questioning the protocol’s effectiveness. “Nothing that happened today is new in my life,” he said, highlighting repeated abuse. The episode overshadowed Real’s victory, with UEFA expected to investigate.