LISBON — Real Madrid‘s Champions League playoff first leg at Benfica was paused for 10 minutes on Tuesday, after the referee initiated UEFA’s anti-racism protocol following Vinícius Júnior‘s opening goal.
The forward put Madrid ahead in the 50th minute in Lisbon, but then spoke to referee Francois Letexier, who made the ‘arms-crossed’ gesture indicating that an accusation of racist abuse had been made.
The match at the Estadio da Luz was then put on hold, as Vinícius — appearing distressed — spoke to Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa, Benfica’s José Mourinho and teammates.
Vinícius was also shown a yellow card following his goal, after he celebrated with a dance by the corner flag, and was then confronted by several Benfica players.
Benfica’s Argentine player Gianluca Prestianni was complaining to Vinícius while covering his mouth with his jersey, and then the Brazil forward suddenly pointed to him and ran toward the referee.
The referee appeared to show that he did not hear anything and gestured that Prestianni had the shirt over his mouth. Letexier pulled Prestianni aside and talked to him before play resumed.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
