Real Madrid Silences Benfica, Expels Own Supporter at the Bernabeu! Here's Why

Thu, 26 Feb 2026, 14:23 WIB | By Gana Buana | Source: MEDIA_INDONESIA | Sports

The second leg of the round of 16 match between Real Madrid and Benfica ended with a 2-1 victory for the home side at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday (February 26th) early morning WIB. This result ensures Los Blancos’ progress to the knockout stage of the 2025/2026 Champions League with an aggregate score of 3-1.

However, more than just the score on the board, this Real Madrid vs. Benfica match became a stage for the Spanish capital club’s firm statement against racial discrimination, which had flared up during the first meeting.

Real Madrid midfielder, Aurelien Tchouameni, said that this victory was a victory for all parties who oppose racism.

Tchouameni’s strong statement refers to the incident in the first leg last week, where Madrid star, Vinicius Junior, was allegedly subjected to racial abuse by Benfica player, Gianluca Prestianni.

“We didn’t play our best match this season. That’s clear. But there is something more important than this match, even more important than football,” said Tchouameni after the match against Benfica.

Vinicius Junior, who was the main focus, managed to score Madrid’s second goal in this match. For Tchouameni, this goal was the best answer to the discrimination that still haunts the world of sports.

UEFA has issued a temporary suspension to Gianluca Prestianni following an investigation into the incident in the first leg. The appeal filed by Benfica was officially rejected on the same day as this second leg match.

Real Madrid also took action to “clean up” internally. Before the kick-off of Real Madrid vs. Benfica, security officers identified and expelled a supporter who performed a Nazi salute in the stands.

The club confirmed that the individual was recorded by television cameras and was immediately secured. “Real Madrid condemns all forms of gestures and expressions that incite violence and hatred in sports and society,” the club said in an official statement.

Vinicius Junior himself celebrated the victory by uploading a photo of a giant banner with the words ‘No to Racism’ on his social media account with the caption: “The dance continues”.

Real Madrid coach, Alvaro Arbeloa, gave special appreciation to Vinicius Junior. Arbeloa believes that the role of the Brazilian player has become much more crucial given that Kylian Mbappe is still out due to a knee injury.

“I reacted with joy because of the beautiful goal he scored. He deserves it after what he has been through,” said Arbeloa. According to him, Vinicius’ maturity in leading the front line in the absence of Mbappe is the key to Madrid’s success in defeating Benfica.

With this victory, Real Madrid is now awaiting the results of the UEFA draw to find out their opponent in the next round of the Champions League. (Z-10)

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Gianluca Prestianni trained with his teammates in Madrid on Tuesday (February 24th), even though he is currently serving a one-match suspension from UEFA.

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Vinicius Junior scored the winning goal for Real Madrid against Benfica in the second leg of the Champions League playoff match, 10 minutes before the end of the match.

Real Madrid hosted Benfica in the second leg of the 2026 Champions League playoff. Los Blancos have a 1-0 aggregate lead. Check out the predictions, line-ups, and full schedule here.

Gianluca Prestianni trained with his teammates in Madrid on Tuesday (February 24th), even though he is currently serving a one-match suspension from UEFA.

Gianluca Prestianni was banned from playing by UEFA while the investigation into allegations of racism against Real Madrid striker Vinicius Junior was ongoing.

Benfica defended their player Gianluca Prestianni, who is currently under investigation by UEFA for alleged racist abuse against Real Madrid star, Vinicius Junior.

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