Tchouameni: More important than football
Real Madrid reached the Champions League last 16 after a 2-1 win over Benfica in the second leg (3-1 aggregate). Midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni described the victory as “for everyone who stands against racism”.
Vinicius Jr alleged racial abuse by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during the first leg, where he scored the only goal. Prestianni denied the claim but received a one-match ban and missed the return leg.
Home fans showed support with a “no to racism” banner in Spanish before kick-off. Vinicius scored again in the 80th minute with his signature dance celebration. He posted on social media: “the dance goes on”.
Tchouameni, who equalised in the first half, said: “There are more important things than this match, than football. Vinicius keeps his confidence and focus. They made the right decision not letting the boy play this match. This is a victory for all of us.”
Trent Alexander-Arnold added Vinicius was “very chilled” and “relaxed” before the game. “He doesn’t need to prove anything. He steps up when we need him most.”
Joe Cole on TNT Sports called Vinicius “brilliant over both legs” with a “superb finish”.
Arbeloa and Courtois praise Vinicius
Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa reacted with joy to Vinicius’ goal: “Because it was him, he deserves it.”
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said: “I’m happy that Vini’s dancing, still dancing, because it means he’s scoring goals.”
Jose Mourinho returned to the Bernabeu as Benfica coach but sat out the dugout due to suspension.
The only negative was Kylian Mbappe’s knee injury absence. Arbeloa hopes it’s not serious: “We felt the best thing was for him to stop, recover 100% and come back confident without discomfort. I hope it’s not major and he’ll return in days or weeks.”
