Trent Alexander-Arnold slammed alleged racist abuse towards Vinicius Jr as “a disgrace for footbTrent Alexander-Arnold has slammed the alleged racist abuse that Vinicius Junior was subject to during Real Madrid’s win over Benfica. Real's Champions League knockout play-off tie at Benfica was halted for around 10 minutes on Tuesday night after Vinicius reported alleged racist abuse. But after celebrating his goal, Vinicius ran to speak to match referee Francois Letexier, who immediately stopped the game. The Frenchman responded to the complaint by crossing ​his arms in front of his ⁠face, activating FIFA's anti-racism protocol and temporarily stopping the match. Vinicius Junior celebrates after scoring for Real Madrid against BenficaBefore the former Liverpool man added: “I don't know if he [Vinicius Junior] took persuading or not [to come back on to the pitch].

Source: Express February 17, 2026 23:17 UTC