Real Madrid's Courtois disappointed with Mourinho's criticism of Vinícius after racism claim

Madrid, Spain – Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has voiced disappointment over José Mourinho’s public criticism of Vinícius Júnior, after the Brazilian forward alleged he was racially abused by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during last week’s Champions League playoff first leg in Lisbon.

Courtois addressed the matter on Tuesday, on the eve of the decisive second leg at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, where Madrid will defend a 1-0 aggregate lead. The tie has been overshadowed by Vinícius’ claim that Prestianni called him “monkey” moments after scoring the match-winner by the Benfica corner flag. UEFA has provisionally suspended the Argentine winger for one game; Mourinho, sent off late in Lisbon for dissent, is also banned from the touchline but travelled with the squad.

Speaking to reporters, Courtois rejected Mourinho’s suggestion that Vinícius invited trouble by celebrating in front of the home supporters. “Mourinho is Mourinho, and as a coach he will defend his club and what his player told him,” Courtois said. “The only thing that disappoints me is that he used Viní’s celebration. He didn’t do anything wrong. He celebrated like many of our rivals have … but it’s over, we have to move on.”

Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany has also criticised Mourinho for targeting Vinícius, while Benfica continues to back Prestianni, describing the 20-year-old as the victim of a “defamation campaign.” At Benfica’s pre-match media availability, assistant João Tralhão and midfielder Fredrik Aursnes declined to discuss specifics, though Aursnes stressed: “There should not be any room for racism anywhere.”

Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa urged UEFA to seize the moment and convert anti-racism slogans into concrete action. “We are facing a great opportunity to make a significant step forward in the fight against racism,” he said, adding that Vinícius—who has five goals in his last four outings—remains “very motivated” to perform.

Courtois echoed the club’s support, insisting the focus must stay on eradicating abuse rather than scrutinising goal celebrations. With Prestianni and Mourinho watching from the stands, Wednesday’s return leg will be as much about football as it is about the sport’s ongoing struggle with discrimination.

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