Vinicius Jr scored the only goal of an otherwise controversial fixture as Real Madrid beat Benfica, 1-0 in the first leg of their Champions League knockout playoff. The Brazilian forward's second half strike was followed by a lengthy delay for an alleged abusive remark from a Benfica player to Vinicius. Play continued, and Madrid held on for an agreeable lead.
Benfica had their chances early, and peppered Madrid's goal - but Thibaut Courtois made a series of handy stops to keep the hosts out. Los Blancos' best chances came from some lovely wing play from Trent Alexander-Arnold, who fired a teasing ball that Mbappe couldn't quite turn in at full stretch. The Frenchman came close shortly before half time, rattling the bar from close range.
Vinicius changed the game in the second half. The Brazilian provided the first moment of real quality, cutting inside his man before unleashing a wonderful curled attempt into the top corner.
But things took a turn for the worse in the immediate aftermath. Vinicius indicated that Gianluca Prestianni made a racist comment, and took a seat on the bench - refusing to play. He returned after an extended delay, and continued to affect the game. Twice he was denied by the goalkeeper, and he caused constant problems down the left. Madrid survived late pressure to hold on for an agreeable 1-0 win.
GOAL rates Real Madrid's players from Estadio da Luz...