Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa appeared in a press conference following the victory over Benfica in the first leg of the playoff qualifying for the UEFA Champions League round of 16, held at the "Da Luz" stadium.

The coach said, "What is your analysis of everything that happened regarding the insult to Prestianni? You should ask the Benfica player. It is everyone's right to have this question answered. Clearly, tolerance for racism must be absolute. We cannot allow such things to happen in football stadiums in 2026."

He added, "What did you say to Vinicius? All I told him was that we would support him no matter what decision he makes, whether he wants to continue playing. We will always be by his side. We are together in good times and bad, and when something like this happens, we will always be by his side. We will always fight together, as we did today."

He continued: "Was withdrawing from the match considered? The referee told me he didn't hear anything and couldn't do anything. Vinicius wouldn't have decided anything. We cannot tolerate this kind of behavior. Of course, we would have supported him."

Regarding Mourinho's comments that Vinicius' celebration provoked 60,000 spectators: "I didn't see Vinicius' celebration, but I saw the fantastic goal. I believe that when Jose knows what happened and what his player said, he will be the first to reject it. Zero tolerance, and we are very happy with the team. This is the Real Madrid we want to see."

He added, "Vinicius is fine. Unfortunately, this is not the first time such things have happened. Vinicius is not only an amazing player but also a person loved by everyone. When you get to know him, you realize what a wonderful human being he is. He has always faced situations like this, and we will stand by him."

He emphasized, "Do you think a Benfica player described Vinicius as a 'monkey'? I believe what Vinicius says. Of course. I would never doubt his words."

Regarding the match: "The first half was very good, and we deserved more goals. Everything changed with that moment (after the goal), and we continued trying to create chances. They exposed themselves more, and we weren't completely in control, but we clearly saw the Real Madrid we want to see, a very cohesive team putting in a great effort. I'm very happy with the difference compared to the match three weeks ago."

Regarding the second leg: "We cannot underestimate a team coached by Mourinho after losing 0-1. They are already preparing for the next match, and Benfica will not allow us to slack off. The Bernabeu will be waiting for Benfica, and this will be decisive. We have 90 minutes of great football ahead of us."

He stated: "Arda Güler is a player with characteristics that benefit us greatly. He is capable of linking between Vinícius and Kylian. He is a special, different player. He has become extremely important, and his development benefits us. These matches help him to evolve, and I am very happy and proud to have him. A player like him."

He concluded: "What worried you about Benfica? I was concerned about seeing my team. The match three weeks ago was the furthest from the level we should be at, and this match was the closest. Here, Benfica launched quick counterattacks against us, and they were fast. It wasn't just about defense, but also about attacking with better organization. And we did that; we successfully finished many attacks. There is still room for improvement, but this is the right path."