Vinicius Junior posts message after alleged racist abuse during Benfica gameBy Press Association Sport StaffVinicius Junior has said “racists are cowards” after the Brazil forward was allegedly abused during Real Madrid’s Champions League win over Benfica. Vinicius Junior was allegedly targeted by a Benfica player (Pedro Rocha/AP) Photo by Pedro RochaIt came after the Brazilian had given his team the lead with a wonderful individual strike five minutes into the second half. After celebrating in front of the home fans, he became visibly upset about something said to him and immediately informed the referee. After the game, Vinicius posted in Portuguese on his Instagram story: “Racists are, above all, cowards. I want to be an independent.”Mourinho then appeared to comment on previous incidents in which Vinicius has been subject to racist abuse in stadiums.

Source: Irish Independent February 18, 2026 13:20 UTC