Vinicius Jr Shatters Champions League Record in Stunning Victory Over Mourinho's Squad
Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior delivered perfect payback against Benfica on Wednesday evening, making history as the first player ever to find the net in both matches of a Champions League knockout round against a team managed by José Mourinho.
A dark shadow was cast over the knockout playoff after Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni reportedly made racist remarks toward Vinicius Jr during the first leg in Lisbon. The focus quickly shifted from the Brazilian's spectacular winning goal to a deeply troubling incident, compounded by Mourinho's suggestion that the No. 7 somehow provoked the abuse through his celebration of the golazo.
Seven days later, Vinicius Jr delivered his answer with another crucial strike in the return fixture, securing Real Madrid's 2–1 triumph and their progression to the round of 16. The No. 7 defiantly repeated his celebration dance, while the banned Mourinho was said to be watching from a team bus.
Adding insult to injury for the self-proclaimed 'Special One,' he found himself on the receiving end of an unwanted milestone. Throughout his distinguished managerial career spanning more than twenty years, Mourinho had never allowed an opposing player to score in both legs of a Champions League knockout tie against his teams ... until this moment.
Vinicius Jr Building His Legacy on Europe's Biggest Stage
Vinicius Jr Building His Legacy on Europe's Biggest Stage
Never change Vini. pic.twitter.com/ZXBPZYKArH
Since Kylian Mbappé's arrival in the Spanish capital, the French forward has assumed the role of Real Madrid's primary star, a position that Vinicius Jr previously occupied. However, with the team's top scorer sidelined through injury on Wednesday, it was his attacking partner who rose to the occasion when it counted most.
Vinicius Jr's displays throughout both matches of the knockout playoff come as little shock to Real Madrid supporters. At just 25 years old, the winger has already compiled an impressive record in the competition, including two Champions League victories.
He has accumulated 32 goals and 30 assists on Europe's premier stage, with 26 of those contributions coming during knockout rounds. Vinicius Jr also holds the distinction of being the Brazilian player with the most knockout-stage goals in Champions League history, totaling 14.
It has become expected, almost second nature, for the No. 7 to deliver decisive moments in crucial fixtures, a reality that Mourinho experienced directly this campaign.
What's Next for Real Madrid in the Champions League?
What's Next for Real Madrid in the Champions League?
Real Madrid secured their spot in the round of 16 on Wednesday evening, though their next opponent remains unknown: either Manchester City or Sporting CP. The club will discover their destiny during Friday's draw ceremony.
Another encounter with the Citizens seems almost predestined; these two clubs have met in knockout competition for four consecutive seasons—with the victor claiming the trophy in three of those instances. They previously battled during the 2025–26 league phase as well, with Man City emerging victorious 2–1 in December.
Arbeloa is among those anticipating another chapter of this contemporary European rivalry. "Supporters have grown accustomed to facing Manchester City, as it's been six or seven consecutive years now. That's quite a streak, but I'm confident we'll meet them once more," he stated during his post-match media session.
"The identity of our opponent is irrelevant because it will be an extremely challenging matchup, particularly knowing we must play the decisive leg on the road. Either potential opponent will be formidable."
Indeed, Real Madrid must venture away from home for the second leg since they enter as the unseeded side in the draw. Regardless of the opponent, Arbeloa will be hoping that Mbappé returns to full fitness to partner Vinicius Jr in the forward line.