Fans Rally Behind Real Madrid Stars Mbappé and Vinícius Ahead of Benfica Clash

Supporters rally behind Real Madrid stars ahead of Benfica showdown

Real Madrid fans offered a heartfelt gesture to back Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior after Benfica's away leg in the Champions League playoff to reach the last 16.

Vinícius alleged that a Benfica player directed a racist insult at him during the game, which Madrid won 1-0 thanks to a superb strike by the Brazilian forward.

The French star Mbappé, Vinícius's teammate, said the Argentine player called the Brazilian monkey five times.

Benfica later accused Mbappé of making racist remarks toward Prestiani, but investigators haven't proven the claim.

Madrid fans placed banners outside Real Madrid's training ground for Vinícius and Mbappé, reading No to racism.

Real Madrid now prepare to visit Santiago Bernabéu for the return leg of the playoff for a last-16 berth on Wednesday.

Punchline 1: If racism were a referee, it would never get a red card because it can never stay onside.

Punchline 2: My optimism button just got pressed—Madrid to win, and the only offside here is my sense of humor.