Mourinho Sent Off as Benfica vs Real Madrid Erupts in Chaos After Racism Allegation…Read More…

Mourinho Sent Off as Benfica vs Real Madrid Erupts in Chaos After Racism Allegation…Read More…

Lisbon, Tuesday, February 17, 2026 — A volatile UEFA Champions League play‑off first leg between Benfica and Real Madrid at the Estádio da Luz was marred by controversy, emotional scenes and disciplinary action on Tuesday night, culminating in Benfica coach José Mourinho being sent off amid a heated confrontation that also saw Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior trigger UEFA’s anti‑racism protocol.

The match initially followed expected script before the eruption of hostilities just after halftime. In the 50th minute, Vinícius Jr — one of Real Madrid’s key attacking threats — opened the scoring with a superb strike to give the Spanish giants the lead in hostile surroundings. Immediately after putting the visitors ahead, the Brazilian’s goal celebration sparked complaints from the home side’s players.

Shortly afterward, Vinícius approached referee François Letexier in a highly charged moment, apparently alleging that Benfica forward Gianluca Prestianni had uttered a racist insult toward him. Video footage captured Prestianni pulling his shirt over his face while speaking toward Vinícius — an action commentators and analysts said was likely an attempt to conceal what was said.

Upon hearing the claims from Vinícius, Letexier immediately activated UEFA’s anti‑racism protocol, stopping play and signalling the incident to both sides. Under the guidelines, once a player reports discriminatory conduct, referees are empowered to halt the match to assess the situation and take appropriate action — including potential suspension or abandonment if necessary.

While the match was paused, tensions spilled over around the touchlines. Players and coaching staff from both teams became embroiled in heated exchanges. Amid the chaos, Benfica manager José Mourinho, the renowned Portuguese tactician and former Real Madrid boss, was shown a straight red card by referee Letexier after an animated touchline confrontation. Reports indicate Mourinho’s dismissal stemmed from dissent and his attempts to intervene in the fracas, adding to the extraordinary spectacle unfolding on the pitch.

During the stoppage, Vinícius was visibly emotional and briefly left the field, sitting on the Real Madrid bench as stewards and staff worked to calm the situation. Some scenes suggested members of the crowd also engaged in chanting perceived as hostile toward the Brazilian, though formal confirmation of crowd abuse is still pending UEFA review.

After approximately nine to ten minutes, play resumed, but the atmosphere remained tense. Vinícius was booed by the home fans whenever he touched the ball, while Benfica struggled to regain composure after the tumultuous interlude. The match continued under a cloud of controversy that threatened to overshadow the football on display.

The incident marks one of the most contentious applications of anti‑racism procedures in recent European competition, and it has prompted further debate about player safety, crowd behaviour and how governing bodies enforce disciplinary protocols during high‑stakes fixtures. UEFA has indicated that it will undertake a full review of the incident, reviewing all available evidence, statements and footage before issuing any potential sanctions or official findings.

As the Champions League campaign unfolds, Tuesday night’s clash at the Estádio da Luz will be remembered not just for its sporting implications, but for the extraordinary and disruptive events that accompanied one of Europe’s elite contests.