Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni fights for the ball against Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior during a Champions League playoff soccer match between SL Benfica and Real Madrid in Lisbon, Portugal, Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026. (AP Photo/Pedro Rocha)
MADRID — Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was disappointed with José Mourinho’s criticism of teammate Vinícius Júnior, who accused Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni of racism.
Courtois spoke on Tuesday, a day before Madrid hosted Benfica in their Champions League playoffs second leg. Madrid’s 1-0 win in Lisbon last week was overshadowed by Vinícius' allegation that Prestianni called him “monkey” after the Brazil forward scored and celebrated by the Benfica corner flag.