The match between Benfica and Real Madrid was stopped in the 50th minute after the anti-racism protocol was activated at the Estadio da Luz. French referee Francois Letexier crossed his arms in an "X" shape after Vinicius Junior approached him to alert him to possible racist abuse from Benfica's Argentine footballer Gianluca Prestianni.

The Brazilian had just scored a goal and had celebrated with his characteristic dance in the corner, an action that earned him first a warning from the referee and then a yellow card for his protest. The situation quickly escalated when several Benfica players went to remonstrate with Vinicius and Argentine Prestianni went directly towards him.

It was at this point that the Real Madrid striker ran to Letexier to report the alleged racist abuse he was receiving, forcing the referee to implement UEFA's anti-racism protocol.