Ink, Goals, and a Taunt: Vinícius Jr. Leads Madrid’s Lisbon Night with a Smile

Lisbon showdown: Vinícius strikes and Otamendi taunts

Vinícius Júnior scored Real Madrid's only goal as the teams met in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League playoff in Lisbon. Benfica pressed hard, but Madrid's pace and precision delivered the decisive away goal.

The match was briefly interrupted by racist abuse directed at Vinícius, underscoring football's ongoing fight against discrimination.

Nicolás Otamendi, Benfica's Argentina defender, drew attention after the goal by lifting his shirt to reveal tattoos claiming three international titles — the World Cup, Copa América, and the Finalissima.

ESPN reported a brief exchange in which Otamendi boasted of his honours, while Vinícius met the moment with a smile and a shrug.

Benfica still holds the away goal, leaving Madrid with a slim margin for the return leg in Madrid. The image of Otamendi's ink lingered in post-match talk.

For Vinícius, the night offered a mix of personal achievement and a reminder that controversy remains a fixture of Europe’s biggest nights.

Sniper punchline 1: If tattoos counted as trophies, Otamendi would have a full cabinet by now. Sniper punchline 2: Vinícius didn’t need three titles to steal the moment—one goal did all the talking.