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Spain

Real Madrid’s Win Over Benfica Celebrated as Stand Against Racism, Vinicius Jr Shines Again

by Farwa February 26, 2026

written by Farwa

The Pak Global Pakistan:

Real Madrid’s progression to the Champions League last 16 after their comeback win against Benfica has been hailed as a victory not just in football, but for the fight against racism. Midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni emphasized the broader significance of the win, following allegations of racial abuse directed at Real’s Vinicius Jr during the first leg.

Vinicius Jr, who scored the decisive goal in the first leg and again in the return match, was allegedly racially abused by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni, who denied the claims but was subsequently banned for one match and missed the second leg. Before kickoff, Real Madrid fans displayed a prominent banner stating “no to racism” in Spanish, showing solidarity with the Brazilian forward.

Tchouameni, who scored the equalizer in the second leg, praised Vinicius for maintaining focus and confidence amid the controversy. “This is a victory for everyone who stands against racism,” he said, highlighting the importance of the issue beyond the pitch.

England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, who played against Vinicius in the match, described the Real Madrid forward as calm and assured, noting that Vinicius does not need to prove his quality with goals, but consistently rises to the occasion.

Vinicius celebrated both his goals with his signature dance near the corner flag, a celebration he continued to share on social media with the message, “the dance goes on.” Former Chelsea striker Joe Cole lauded Vinicius’s superb finishing on TNT Sports, while Real Madrid legend Alvaro Arbeloa and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois expressed their joy at his performance and celebrations.

The match also marked the return of Jose Mourinho to Real Madrid’s home stadium since his managerial stint from 2010 to 2013, though he was suspended and unable to coach on the sidelines.

On a less positive note for Real Madrid, star forward Kylian Mbappe missed the game due to a knee injury and is expected to be sidelined for an unspecified period. Arbeloa expressed hope for a full recovery, emphasizing the importance of Mbappe’s fitness for upcoming fixtures.

Real Madrid’s 2-1 win on the night, sealing a 3-1 aggregate victory, was celebrated not just as a sporting achievement but as a powerful message against racism in football.

February 26, 2026 0 comment

Spain

Benjamin Sesko’s Impact Spurs Manchester United’s Charge Towards Champions League Return

by Farwa February 24, 2026

written by Farwa

The Pak Global Pakistan:

Manchester United’s young forward Benjamin Sesko has become a pivotal figure in the team’s quest to return to the Champions League after a two-year absence. Head coach Michael Carrick praised Sesko’s rapid development, noting his growing confidence and the significant strides he has made in recent matches.

Sesko’s contributions off the bench were crucial in United’s recent fixtures. His stoppage-time volley secured a vital point against West Ham on 10 February, while his impressive 71st-minute goal clinched a 1-0 victory over Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium. The latter goal showcased Sesko’s stamina and composure, as he sprinted 70 yards before calmly finishing the move, earning admiration from pundits like Jamie Carragher.

This season, Sesko has scored eight goals, with six coming in his last seven matches since January, following a slow start under former manager Ruben Amorim. His recent form has sparked discussions about his place in the starting lineup, though Carrick remains confident in his squad’s depth and Sesko’s mindset.

Sesko himself expressed satisfaction with his role, emphasizing his readiness to perform whether he plays five or ninety minutes. His belief in himself and the support from teammates have been vital to his success.

Another summer signing, 23-year-old goalkeeper Senne Lammens, has also impressed, notably with a crucial save against Everton’s Michael Keane. Lammens has drawn comparisons to legendary keeper Edwin van der Sar for his calm presence and ability to organize the defense, qualities Carrick values highly.

United’s ambitions have grown since the start of the season. Initially targeting Europa League qualification, the squad now eyes a Champions League spot, a goal that seems increasingly attainable with a 10-game unbeaten run in the Premier League.

With no European commitments this season, United hold an advantage over rivals Aston Villa, Chelsea, and Liverpool, who face the challenges of multiple competitions. Experts like Carragher believe United are on course to secure Champions League football once again.

February 24, 2026 0 comment

Spain

Football Stars Condemn Racist Abuse of Vinicius Junior Amid Controversy Over Mourinho’s Comments

by Farwa February 18, 2026

written by Farwa

The Pak Global Pakistan:

During Real Madrid’s Champions League match against Benfica, the game was halted when Vinicius Junior reported alleged racist abuse by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni. Vinicius and his teammates temporarily left the pitch in protest. Trent Alexander-Arnold called the incident a “disgrace to football,” emphasizing that racist abuse has no place in the sport or society.

Benfica manager Jose Mourinho faced widespread criticism for his remarks suggesting Vinicius did not celebrate his goal respectfully and implying the Brazilian’s behavior provoked the crowd. Mourinho also defended Benfica against accusations of racism, citing club legend Eusebio as evidence.

Former players Clarence Seedorf and Theo Walcott condemned Mourinho’s comments, stressing that racial abuse should never be justified or downplayed. Mbappe demanded that Prestianni be banned from the Champions League, and Thierry Henry shared empathy for Vinicius, recalling his own experiences with racist abuse on the field.

With the second leg between the teams scheduled in Madrid, calls for urgent action from UEFA have intensified, urging the governing body to address racism in football swiftly and decisively.

February 18, 2026 0 comment

Spain

Girona Stuns Barcelona in Fiery Catalan Derby as Lamine Yamal Misses Penalty

by Farwa February 17, 2026

written by Farwa

The Pak Global Pakistan:

Barcelona missed a crucial opportunity to return to the top of La Liga after falling to a 2-1 defeat against Girona in a heated Catalan derby at Estadio Montilivi. The defeat leaves Hansi Flick’s side trailing Real Madrid by two points in the title race.

Substitute Fran Beltran struck the decisive goal in the 86th minute, securing all three points for Girona and easing their relegation worries. A brief VAR check confirmed the goal despite Barcelona’s protests over an alleged foul on defender Jules Kounde in the buildup.

The match took a dramatic turn in stoppage time when Girona’s substitute Joel Roca was shown a red card for a lunging challenge on Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal. However, Barcelona failed to capitalize on the numerical advantage.

Barcelona’s struggles continued as Yamal, who was central to their attacking efforts, missed several clear chances, including a penalty that struck the base of the upright just before half-time.

Girona opened the scoring in the 59th minute with a header from Pau Cubarsi, assisted by Kounde. However, Girona responded swiftly, with Thomas Lemar netting an equalizer two minutes later. Despite a controversial moment when Girona’s Viktor Tsygankov scored but was denied after a foul on the goalkeeper, Girona held on for the win.

This result ends Barcelona’s three-game winning streak and marks their third league loss against their regional rivals. They now face the prospect of falling five points behind Real Madrid, who play Osasuna next.

Girona, meanwhile, ended a three-game winless streak and climbed to 12th place, five points clear of the relegation zone.

February 17, 2026 0 comment