Trent Alexander-Arnold edges closer to Liverpool reunion after controversial Real Madrid clashTrent Alexander-Arnold could be on course to face his former club Liverpool in this season’s Champions League after Real Madrid claimed a narrow 1-0 win over Benfica on Tuesday night.
Los Blancos took control of the two-legged tie thanks to a second-half strike from Vinicius Jr, who netted the decisive goal in the 50th minute at the Estádio da Luz.
However, the match was overshadowed by an alleged racist incident directed at the Brazilian forward. The game was temporarily halted after Vinicius left the pitch following a heated exchange with Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni. The referee, François Letexier, stopped play for around 10 minutes while the situation was addressed, before the match resumed. Prestianni later claimed there had been a misunderstanding.
Despite the disruption, Madrid held on to their slim advantage and saw out the victory.Trent speaks out on Vinicius abuse After full-time, Trent Alexander-Arnold shared his reaction to the disturbing incident: “It’s obviously upsetting. We’re here to do our jobs and enjoy playing football, but moments like this take the joy out of the game for everyone,” he told Amazon Prime, via BBC Sport.
“We showed great character, especially in such a hostile atmosphere, and stayed focused to get the win. I’m proud of how the team handled the situation.”Racist abuse has no place in football or society, and it remains deeply troubling that Vinicius Jr continues to be subjected to such treatment. The suggestion from José Mourinho that the forward’s goal celebration may have contributed to the incident only added to the disappointment.
There is never any excuse or justification for racism.Trent edging closer to Liverpool reunionWith the second leg set to take place at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid are now firm favourites to progress. If they complete the job, they could be drawn against Liverpool in the later rounds — assuming both sides navigate the last-16 stage.Such a matchup would mark Trent Alexander-Arnold’s first encounter with Liverpool since leaving Anfield on a free transfer last summer, this time wearing the famous white of Real Madrid.
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