Vinícius Jr. Strikes as Real Madrid Edge S.L. Benfica in UEFA Champions League Showdown
February 17, 2026
235d agoAfter a tight first half with few clear chances, Real Madrid took the lead early in the second half when Vinícius Júnior finished with a brilliant curled shot into the top corner just after the break, converted from an assist by Kylian Mbappé. That goal proved decisive in a closely contested contest.
The match wasn’t without drama. Play was temporarily halted for around 10–11 minutes after the goal due to an alleged racist incident involving Vinícius Jr., prompting the referee to activate the anti-racism protocol — a significant interruption that underscored ongoing concerns in the game. In the closing stages, Benfica’s manager José Mourinho was sent off after receiving two yellow cards, adding to an already tense atmosphere.
Benfica, led by captain Anatoliy Trubin in goal and supported by attackers like Gianluca Prestianni and Vangelis Pavlidis, pushed hard for an equalizer but struggled to break down Madrid’s organized defence. Midfielders such as Leandro Barreiro and Fredrik Aursnes worked tirelessly for the hosts, while Real Madrid controlled much of the play thanks to efforts from Aurélien Tchouaméni and Federico Valverde.
The 1-0 scoreline gives Real Madrid a narrow advantage heading into the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu. Benfica will need to find a way to unlock Madrid’s back line on home soil if they are to overturn the deficit and advance in the competition.
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