Benfica supporters clashed with Spanish police in Madrid ahead of their Champions League match against Real Madrid. Footage posted online showed fans being pushed back by riot police, with some individuals falling to the ground and engaging in physical altercations. Other videos captured police on horseback confronting the crowd, and reports emerged that some fans required medical treatment.
The disturbances occurred shortly before kick-off at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, where Real Madrid secured their place in the last 16 with a 3-1 aggregate victory. Vinícius Júnior scored the decisive goal, extending his excellent form with a sixth goal in five games.
The match build-up was overshadowed by allegations that Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni racially abused Vinícius during the first leg. UEFA provisionally suspended Prestianni on Monday, ruling him out of the return fixture, despite Benfica's appeal being dismissed on Wednesday afternoon. Real Madrid fans displayed banners supporting Vinícius, and two anti-racism messages—'No to racism' and 'Respect'—were read out before the game.
During the match, a large section of the away fans booed Vinícius whenever he touched the ball. Rafa Silva had given Benfica an early lead, but Aurélien Tchouaméni equalised two minutes later. With ten minutes remaining, Vinícius scored to seal Real's progression. Commentator Joe Cole praised the Brazilian's performance, saying, 'He was brilliant over both legs.'
Real Madrid will face either Manchester City or Sporting in the last 16, with the draw scheduled for Friday. The club's victory came amid heightened security and tension in the Spanish capital.
