In a match overshadowed by alleged racist insults directed at Vinícius Jr. during the Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Benfica, another controversy emerged involving refereeing decisions and José Mourinho. The Portuguese manager addressed his red card after the game, denying that it was related to any reaction toward the Brazilian forward.

José Mourinho's strong accusations

The Portuguese coach José Mourinho - known for his outspoken style in high-pressure matches - claimed the referee had been instructed to protect certain Real Madrid players from being booked.

"They sent me off for saying something very clear: the referee had a piece of paper that said Aurélien Tchouaméni, Carreras, and Dean Huijsen were not to be shown yellow cards," he said in the post-match press conference. "He didn't show a single card to Carreras or Tchouaméni. I told the referee exactly that. I've been on the bench for 1,400 matches and I know how these things work."

The comments added fuel to an already heated Champions League playoff match, which had been stopped for nearly 10 minutes after Vinícius Jr. reported racist insults allegedly coming from Gianluca Prestianni.

Because of the incident, Mourinho's red card suspension will prevent him from being on the bench for the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, something he admitted could affect his team.

"I can't go into the locker room, I can't communicate directly with the team. It's going to be very difficult. But my assistants are there and they'll do their part."