Real Madrid won 1-0 in Lisbon as Vinícius Júnior's brilliant strike decided the first leg, but the match was halted after an alleged racist comment by Gianluca Prestianni. Punters: back Real Madrid to progress but expect volatile in-play markets and widening odds on player props; avoid wagers on card- or player-specific lines until UEFA concludes its investigation.
Real Madrid 1-0 Benfica — Stunning goal marred by alleged racist incident
Real Madrid edged Benfica 1-0 at the Estadio da Luz, but the result was overshadowed when play was stopped after allegations of a racist remark directed at Vinícius Júnior. The Brazilian’s spectacular strike proved decisive, yet the celebrations were cut short by a confrontation that led to a lengthy halt under UEFA protocols.
Vinícius Júnior’s strike and the stoppage
Vinícius produced a moment of individual brilliance to put Real Madrid ahead, celebrating in front of the home support. Moments later the winger was shown a yellow card by referee François Letexier. An exchange followed between Vinícius and Benfica youngster Gianluca Prestianni, with the Madrid forward reporting an alleged racist comment to the referee. The match paused for more than ten minutes while officials applied UEFA’s anti-discrimination procedures.
Atmosphere and on-field fallout
When play resumed, Vinícius continued to face loud jeers from the crowd every time he touched the ball. Benfica manager José Mourinho approached the player to establish what had happened before the game restarted. The incident cast a shadow over what had been a tense, tightly contested first leg.
Reactions: condemnation from players
Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold condemned the scenes, calling them “a disgrace to football” and saying the episode “ruined the night” for those involved. He urged justice and reiterated that there is no place for racism in football or society.
UEFA investigation and possible consequences
UEFA has launched an investigation into the incident. Depending on the findings, sanctions could include fines, stadium closures, or more severe sporting penalties for the home club. Any disciplinary outcome could affect the tie’s atmosphere, future fixtures and club reputations.
Betting implications and market signal
The result gives Real Madrid a narrow advantage heading into the second leg, making them the likely favorite to progress in pre-match markets.
However, bookmakers and bettors should expect volatility: in-play odds may swing on crowd behaviour, stoppages or disciplinary decisions.
Caution is advised with player-specific bets (goalscorer or card markets) involving Vinícius or individuals tied to the incident until UEFA concludes its probe.
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Former Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold started the first leg of the Champions League play‐off in Lisbon, a match Real Madrid won 1-0 against Benfica but which was marred by ugly scenes
Liverpool Echo
