Vinicius Jr walks off pitch as he accuses opponent of racism with chaotic Champions League clash stopped

Real Madrid’s Champions League clash with Benfica was suspended after an accusation of racial abuse.

The match was paused during the second half as Vinicius Jr refused to continue following his opening goal.

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Vinicius Jr had fired the visitors into the lead five minutes after the interval in their knockout round play-off tie.

However, his goal was followed by unsavoury scenes at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon.

The Brazilian had initially been booked by the referee for antagonising the home supporters as he celebrated by the corner flag.

Vinicius Jr then approached the official to report that he had been subjected to racial abuse before he walked off the pitch.

His decision to leave the field of play follows UEFA’s protocols for when a player is a victim of racial abuse.

With the Real Madrid forward sat in the dugout, the match was paused for ten minutes.

Speaking on Amazon Prime Video’s coverage, former referee Mark Clattenburg explained: “Words have been said between the players. Vinicius is not happy with what has been said.

“The referee is following the protocol for a racial comment that has been said.”

He concluded: “Once Vinicius has approached the referee the referee now has to follow the protocol and the rules that UEFA have set out when this happens.”

Following the delay, Vinicius Jr returned to the pitch before the match resumed but remained visibly upset by the incident. He was subjected to boos from the home crowd whenever receiving the ball.

AFP

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AFP

Clattenburg added: “As a referee, I have had this situation before when players have reported a racial comment on the field of play.

“All he can do is make the report. Afterwards, then UEFA will look into this. As a referee it is very difficult in this situation.”

UEFA’s Safety and Security Regulations advise players, clubs and officials on how to handle incidents of racism during matches.

Under Rule 6 of Article 45.05a, they say: “Referees should stop, suspend or even abandon a match if racist incidents occur.

“Following UEFA’s three-step guidelines, a match will first be stopped and a public warning given. Second, the match will be suspended for a period of time.

“Third, and after coordination with security officers, the match will be abandoned if racist behaviour has not ceased. In such a case the responsible team forfeits the tie.”

More to follow.