An alleged incident of racial abuse marred a UEFA Champions League play-off clash between Real Madrid CF and S.L. Benfica at the Estádio da Luz. The controversy unfolded after Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior scored the decisive goal, giving his team a 1-0 victory. Following his celebratory dance, tensions escalated on the pitch, leading to an alleged racist comment directed at Vinícius by Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni. Reports indicated Prestianni covered his mouth with his shirt while speaking, and Vinícius appeared visibly distressed, briefly walking off the field. The game was consequently stopped for approximately ten minutes, during which referee François Letexier initiated the anti-racism protocol after Vinícius accused the Argentine player of racist insults, with reports from after the game alleging Prestianni called Vinícius a 'Monkey'.

Real Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappé vehemently condemned the alleged abuse, calling for the strongest possible sanctions against Prestianni. Speaking after the match, Mbappé reportedly stated, “Prestianni should never play in the Champions League again.” He recounted asking Vinícius about his wishes, to which Vinícius responded, “Yes, we were going to leave the field.” Mbappé emphasized the critical importance of setting an example in the ongoing fight against racism in football, declaring, “We have to do something; we can’t allow this. I hope measures are taken. We have to set an example for all the children who look up to us; there are things we can’t accept.” The French international also expressed disbelief at the young player's alleged conduct, adding, “I’m not saying I’m perfect, but I don’t let that kind of thing slide. This player is young. How can you say these things on a football pitch?”

Brazil's football ruling body, the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation), swiftly released a statement expressing solidarity with Vinícius Júnior. The statement read, “The CBF stands in solidarity with Vinícius Júnior, victim of yet another act of racism this Tuesday, after scoring for Real Madrid against Benfica in Lisbon.” The federation unequivocally condemned the act, asserting, “Racism is a crime. It is unacceptable. It cannot exist in football or anywhere else. Vini, you are not alone. Your decision to activate the protocol is an example of courage and dignity. We are proud of you.” The CBF reiterated its unwavering commitment to combating all forms of discrimination, concluding, “We will remain steadfast in the fight against all forms of discrimination. We stand by your side. Always.”