Jose Mourinho claims Vinicius Jr 'incited' opponents in racism row

Mourinho, sent off late in the game for protesting another incident, suggested that the Brazilian forward's celebration was disrespectful and contributed to tensions on the pitch. Speaking to Amazon Prime Video Sport, he said:

"These talents are able to do these beautiful things, but unfortunately he (Vinicius) was not just happy to score that astonishing goal. When you score a goal like that, you celebrate in a respectful way."

When asked whether Vinicius incited the home crowd, Mourinho added: "Yes. I believe so. The words they exchanged - Prestianni with Vinicius - I want to be independent. I don't comment about it."

Defending Benfica, Mourinho pointed to club legend Eusebio as proof that racism has no place at the club:

"The biggest person in the history of this club was black. This club, the last thing that it is, is racist."

The controversy erupted after Vinicius scored a 50th-minute goal, celebrated near the corner flag, and allegedly received racial abuse from Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni, who reportedly covered his mouth while speaking. Vinicius left the pitch in protest, causing a 10-minute stoppage under UEFA protocols before returning to finish the match, which ended 1-0 to Real Madrid.

Mourinho's remarks were widely criticized. Pundits Wayne Rooney, Clarence Seedorf, and Theo Walcott described his comments as unfair and disappointing. Seedorf warned that Mourinho's framing of the incident risked "justifying racist abuse."