Benfica Fans Clash With Riot Police Before Real Madrid Showdown
The sirens echoed through the Madrid night. Supporters of Benfica clashed with Spanish riot police outside the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, hours before their decisive Champions League meeting with Real Madrid, in a match already overshadowed by racism allegations involving Gianluca Prestianni and Vinicius Jr.
Footage shared online showed mounted officers advancing toward groups of away fans near the stadium entrances.
Several supporters were seen on the ground as police worked to disperse the crowd. Spanish authorities have yet to confirm an official injury total, but local reports indicated that multiple fans required medical attention.
The unrest eventually subsided, allowing the fixture to proceed. Still, the tension outside quickly followed the teams into the stadium.
Violence outside the Bernabéu before kick-off
The stakes were clear. Both clubs were fighting for a place in the Champions League last 16. Instead of focusing solely on football, attention shifted to security operations and a growing disciplinary case.
