Vinicius Junior scored the decisive goal as Real Madrid advanced past Benfica 3-1 on aggregate in their Champions League playoff, despite facing loud boos from traveling Benfica fans. The Brazilian forward broke through in the 80th minute to seal a 2-1 victory at the Bernabeu, converting a one-on-one chance against the Benfica goalkeeper.

The match was charged with tension following Vinicius's accusations of racial abuse by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni during their first leg in Lisbon. More than 3,000 Benfica supporters jeered Vinicius throughout, celebrating when he lost possession early and booing emphatically when his name was announced. The Brazilian responded by dancing by the corner flag after his goal, mirroring his celebration from the first leg.

Rafa Silva had leveled the tie on aggregate with an early goal, but Aurelien Tchouameni quickly restored Madrid's advantage. Vinicius was involved in another Madrid goal that was disallowed for offside. Prestianni, who denied the racial abuse allegations, sat out due to a UEFA suspension that Benfica unsuccessfully appealed. Before kickoff, Madrid fans displayed anti-racism banners while Benfica's Jose Mourinho watched from the stands after being sent off in the first leg.