Real Madrid had to come away with a win if they wanted to stay alive in the race for La Liga. And that they did. Barcelona had already won, temporarily extending their lead for the championship to 7 points. With their win over Atleti, Real are now four points behind Barca.

Curiously enough, Real Madrid will now have to cheer for their cross-town enemies. On Matchday 30 of La Liga, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid will go head to head, and Real need their recent opponents to at least get one point and prevent Barcelona from escaping away with the title. Barcelona and Real Madrid won’t play each other until Matchday 35. Find every highlight as it happened below.

Setting up Federico Valverde—the undisputed star of the match who netted a sensational first-half hat-trick—Vinicius reached 31 assists for Real Madrid in Champions League history. This mark ties the legendary total set by Ronaldo during his storied tenure in the Spanish capital.

The most striking aspect of this milestone is the efficiency with which it was achieved. While Ronaldo recorded his 31st assist in his 101st appearance for the club (during a 5–1 group stage win over Basel in 2014), Vini required just 79 games to match the feat.

The Brazilian could have capped his historic night with a goal, but Vinicius missed a second-half penalty, that was brilliantly saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma. Despite the missed spot-kick, the achievement cements Vini’s status alongside Ronaldo, a record he is widely expected to break as the current campaign progresses.

Who holds the all-time record in Champions League?

Perhaps surprisingly, Cristiano Ronaldo sits at the top of the all-time Champions League list with 42 assists. Despite being recognized primarily as the tournament’s greatest goalscorer, the Portuguese star also leads the way in creating them.

Ronaldo is followed closely by Angel Di Maria (41 assists) and Lionel Messi (40 assists), with Neymar holding the fourth spot at 33. Following his recent performance, the Brazilian forward has climbed into fifth place, currently sitting on 31 assists.

While Vini still needs 12 more assists to claim the top spot, he holds a significant advantage: the four players currently ranked above him are no longer playing in Europe, making their return to Champions League competition highly unlikely.

Catching Ronaldo is a realistic goal for the Real Madrid star. Vinicius has already recorded eight assists in this edition of the Champions League alone, and with Real Madrid well-positioned to advance to the quarterfinals, he will have more opportunities to climb the rankings this season.

It looks like the scoring fun belongs entirely to Federico Valverde. After being fouled by Donnarumma inside the penalty box, Vinicius had an unbeatable chance to put his name in the score sheet. However, his attempt was too weak and not high enough to beat the Italian goalkeeper. As a result, Real Madrid remained up 3-0 over Man. City in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League‘s round of 16.

Right now, it seems like the two-legged duel is already decided. But much can change. Perhaps, “La Casa Blanca” will come back to lament Vini’s crucial miss. If Manchester City can mount a comeback—tonight or next week at their home—fans in Madrid will surely look back to this penalty miss as a huge turning point.

Vinicius Jr. apologizes for missed penalty shot

As soon as he made contact with the football, Vini realized his shot wasn’t going to make it past Donnarumma. The Citizens’ goalkeeper correctly guessed Vinicius’ intentions, and his massive 6’5″ (1.96m) frame allowed him to reach his left post in time.

After the miss in the 58th minute, Vinicius immediately apologized to the fans in the stands at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Brazilian star raised his left hand while resting his right hand over his heart in a universal, unspoken gesture of asking for forgiveness.

Vinicius missed his second penalty in Champions League

According to soccer statistician Mister Chip (@2010MisterChip on X), Vinícius Júnior missed his second penalty in the UEFA Champions League during the March 11, 2026, clash against Manchester City.

With this miss, Vini has now tied Cristiano Ronaldo’s mark of two missed penalties for Real Madrid in Europe’s most prestigious competition. However, the Brazilian has scored 2 of 4 attempts (50% success rate), whereas the Portuguese icon netted 14 of 16 penalty shots (87.5% scoring rate) for Real Madrid in the Champions League.

The episode initially led to UEFA action, suspending Prestianni for one match and preventing him from participating in the second leg at Santiago Bernabeu. Meanwhile, an institutional investigation was launched and remains ongoing. Infantino has now weighed in and delivered his verdict in recent hours, calling for automatic red cards for any player who covers their mouth while speaking on the field in a similar context.

“If a player covers their mouth and says something, and that has a racist consequence, then they have to be sent off, obviously,” the Swiss executive said in remarks to Sky News.

Infantino also added that action should follow a presumption of wrongdoing: “It must exist, because a player has said something they should not have said. Otherwise, you wouldn’t cover your mouth, you have nothing to hide. I just don’t understand it.”

Why implement this measure?

The Prestianni case originated after the Champions League match between Benfica and Real Madrid. Vinicius reported that Prestianni called him “m*nk**” following his goal celebration, triggering UEFA’s immediate anti-racism protocol.

However, the exchange could not be verified because the young Argentine had covered his mouth during the interaction. This factor made the incident subject to further review.

Although Prestianni repeatedly denied the accusation, UEFA suspended him provisionally and barred him from playing in the second leg. The investigation remains open.

In parallel, the International Football Association Board addressed the matter at its most recent meeting. If the proposal advances, the aim is for the new rule to take effect starting with the 2026 World Cup.

The coach made a strong statement about the potential consequences for his player. As journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed on his Instagram account, the coach warned that if Prestianni’s words were true, his career with Mourinho and Benfica would be over.

“I love Arbeloa and I will continue to love him but I think I took the right position about that case. I took position without defending one or attacking another. I clearly said he didn’t want to wear either Real white jersey or Benfica’s red jersey in a situation that could eventually be serious, that I said after the game,” Mourinho said.

“That’s why I tell you to read the Declaration of Human Rights and I repudiate any discrimination or prejudice. I also tell you that if you prove that my player did not respect these principles, this player’s career with coach Mourinho and Benfica comes to an end.”

Anticipation builds over final decision

Jose Mourinho is undoubtedly one of the most experienced coaches in European soccer today, not only because of his achievements but also for how he manages his squads.

For this reason, he still maintains a cloud of uncertainty regarding Prestianni’s situation and a potential sanction after his incident with Vinicius Jr during the latest Champions League playoffs: “I’m not a literate person… but I’m not ignorant either. I put the presumption of innocence and always put a if.

“Unfortunately, UEFA had preferred to keep the player away from game looking at article 416328… and they went in the direction of not getting into ‘IFs.’ If the player is effectively guilty, I won’t look at him the same way again and it’s over with me. But I have to put a lot of ‘IFs’ ahead.”

A recent report from the Portuguese outlet Correio da Manha alleged that Prestianni admitted to his teammates that he did, in fact, direct a racial slur toward the Brazilian forward during the first leg.

In response to these claims, Benfica issued a new statement on Thursday, once again coming to the defense of the 20-year-old midfielder and categorically denying the report.

“Benfica categorically deny that the player Prestianni informed the squad or the Club’s structure that he had made a racist insult toward Vinícius Júnior of Real Madrid,” the club stated in an official statement.

“As has already been made public, the player apologized to his teammates for the incident that occurred during the match against Real Madrid, regretting its scale and consequences, and assuring everyone — just as he did from the very first moment — that he is not racist,” the statement concluded.

Prestianni criticizes UEFA

After UEFA reached a final decision to uphold Prestianni’s provisional suspension for the second leg against Real Madrid—rejecting Benfica’s appeal to have the player available—Prestianni broke his silence in a now-deleted post where he took a direct shot at the European governing body.

Writing on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Prestianni described UEFA as ‘a disgrace,’ alleging that ‘they’re not even trying to hide their bias against Real Madrid anymore.’ However, just minutes after the post went live, Prestianni opted to delete it.

The outburst follows a highly contentious week for the player, who was sidelined for the decisive matchup at the Santiago Bernabeu while UEFA continues its investigation into racism allegations made by Vinicius Jr.

The matchup had been overshadowed by racism allegations made by the Brazilian international against the Argentine midfielder in the first leg, resulting in Prestianni’s suspension for the return fixture.

Having served as a pivotal figure throughout the tie—scoring key goals in both the first and second legs—Vini took to his Instagram account to share a three-word message: “The dance continues!!!!!!”

After facing significant criticism over his goal celebrations—including pointed remarks from Benfica manager Jose Mourinho—Vinicius Jr. did not hesitate when he scored the decisive goal that sealed the series for Real Madrid.

The Brazilian international headed directly for the corner flag to perform his trademark dance; however, this time, the celebration took place in front of his own supporters at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Who will Real Madrid face in the Round of 16?

Having successfully navigated the knockout phase playoff, Real Madrid have maintained their historic streak as the only club never to be eliminated before the Round of 16 in the Champions League era. With 30 appearances in the competition, the Spanish giants have reached the final 16 on every single occasion.

With their ticket now officially punched, Alvaro Arbeloa’s men must wait for the UEFA draw on Friday, February 27. Due to the new tournament structure and their 9th-place finish in the league phase, Real Madrid are locked into a bracket that will see them face either Manchester City or Sporting Lisbon.

The draw in Nyon will determine which of these two seeded sides will host the decisive second leg, with the first-leg matches scheduled to take place at the Santiago Bernabeu on March 10 or 11.

A notable feature of his goals: the celebratory dance in the corner, performed this time in front of his home supporters, after giving Real Madrid the lead and possibly the spot in the Round on 16.

In a gripping first half at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Benfica stunned the home crowd with an early goal from Rafa Silva. However, just two minutes later, Tchouaméni leveled the match for Real Madrid, capitalizing on a precise assist from Federico Valverde with a powerful strike that showcased the French international’s caliber.

The Portuguese side pressed vigorously to equalize the aggregate score, but thanks to resilient defending and the imperious presence of Thibaut Courtois, Benfica struggled to find the net. Eventually, Vini Jr. seized a counterattack opportunity to beat Anatoliy Trubin, sealing a decisive 2-1 victory for the hosts.

Real Madrid’s path to the Round of 16

Real Madrid have now confirmed their place in the Champions League round of 16 following their victory over Benfica. The team awaits the draw to learn their next opponent on the European stage, while Benfica shifts focus to contest the national championship title against the likes of Porto and Sporting CP.

Fans are eager to see if Real Madrid will have Kylian Mbappe back for the next round, as his absence against Benfica have been a topic of concern among the supporters.

Looking ahead, Real Madrid appear poised for another successful Champions League campaign. Following a brief domestic setback that led to Xabi Alonso’s departure, Los Merengues are placing their trust in Álvaro Arbeloa to navigate the challenges that await.

Following the incident, Prestianni reportedly provided evidence to UEFA regarding his exchange with the Brazilian star. While the Argentine winger vehemently denied using any racist language, he acknowledged using a homophobic slur in Spanish. Consequently, UEFA have handed Prestianni a provisional one-match suspension for discriminatory behavior, ruling him out of Wednesday’s return leg.

In the wake of the ruling, Benfica forward Dodi Lukebakio spoke candidly about the situation, offering a clear warning to his young teammate. “I only hope that what was said is false. Because if it is true, I cannot accept it. I am against injustice, and every injustice deserves consequences,” the Belgian forward told Pickx+Sports.

However, Lukebakio remained measured, considering all possibilities without taking a definitive side. “It’s true that there is talk and speculation, but ultimately, we don’t know what was actually said. Is it true, or was it an exaggeration to take advantage of the situation? I think it is also possible that Real Madrid wanted to take advantage of this,” the former Sevilla forward added.

Benfica fight to include Prestianni in squad for Real Madrid clash

Following the suspension handed down by UEFA to Gianluca Prestianni, Benfica reacted with a strong statement, noting that the club “regrets being deprived of the player while the process is still under investigation” and confirmed they will appeal the decision.

Despite the governing body’s ruling against the Argentine winger, Portuguese outlet A Bola reported that the club remains hopeful they can count on the player for the second leg.

Furthermore, the same outlet reported that “Gianluca Prestianni will travel with the Benfica team to Madrid, where the Eagles play Real Madrid this Wednesday in the second leg of the play-off for access to the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League”.

However, the situation remains precarious. UEFA must now issue a formal response to the appeal, a process that can often be time-consuming. With less than 24 hours remaining until kickoff against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, it appears increasingly unlikely that the sanction will be overturned in time for Prestianni to take the pitch.

Fueling the controversy, The Times reported that Prestianni is now claiming UEFA that Vinicius Jr. insulted him by calling him a “dwarf” during the heated exchange, while the Brazilian player accused the Argentine striker of using the derogatory term “m**k**.”

Although this revelation does not alter Prestianni’s immediate situation—he has already been sanctioned by UEFA—it may prompt a reassessment of the discipline imposed, as UEFA is obliged to consider Vinicius Jr.’s side of the story.

Amidst this tense situation, several developments have unfolded, including Jose Mourinho reportedly made a legal action ahead of the pivotal match, which will determine one of the teams advancing to the Champions League Round of 16.

Benfica’s president defends his player

While Prestianni reportedly attributes certain comments to Vinicius Jr. during the incident, Benfica’s President, Rui Costa, has issued a statement regarding the confrontation between the Argentine and the Brazilian in Portugal.

Furthermore, Benfica have released an official statement supporting Prestianni amidst the extensive speculation concerning his words and actions during the altercation.

Regardless of the ongoing dispute, Prestianni is set to attend the upcoming match with his team. Real Madrid fans may not extend a warm welcome, but the anticipated clash will ultimately clarify the situation in the Champions League.

Recently, Benfica president publicly defended Gianluca Prestianni amid racism allegations, which triggered debates across social media and sports outlets, as UEFA dismissed the complaint filed by Benfica after their Champions League loss to Real Madrid.

Courtois made his stance clear: “Mourinho? It’s disappointing to use the Vini celebration as an excuse. You can’t use that to justify a possible racism episode,” he said according to @MadridXtra on X. His remarks underline Real Madrid’s view that celebrations should not be conflated with alleged misconduct, highlighting the solidarity within the squad.

Mourinho’s legal moves stir additional debate

Mourinho reportedly makes legal decision for Benfica’s second leg, a move that continues to divide opinions and intensifies the narrative around the incident. Courtois’ criticism reinforces the perception that the matter should be addressed carefully and fairly.

What’s next for Vinicius Jr. and Real Madrid

As the Champions League progresses, Vinicius Jr.’s focus will be crucial the team’s success. Real Madrid will face Benfica on Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabeu, in the second leg.