Real Madrid secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Benfica in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff tie for a place in the Last 16, but the match has been overshadowed by controversial remarks from José Mourinho directed at Vinícius Júnior.
Following the game in Lisbon, Mourinho shared his views on the recurring incidents surrounding Vinícius Jr and the reactions he provokes in stadiums across Europe. The former Real Madrid manager questioned the Brazilian star’s goal celebrations, suggesting they may be contributing to the hostile atmosphere he faces.
“When it happens in so many stadiums, always with the same player, there is something wrong… I do not get it,” Mourinho said. He added that he advised Vinícius to celebrate “normally,” asking why he could not show happiness “like Pelé or Di Stéfano” rather than in a way that appears to provoke opposition fans.
Mourinho also rejected accusations of racism directed at Benfica supporters, stating that the Portuguese giants are “not a racist club” and pointing to legendary striker Eusébio as proof of the club’s historic respect for Black players.