The Real Madrid versus Real Sociedad Copa Del Rey semi-final first leg was briefly halted because Real Madrid players were being abused by fans. A fan was clearly seen making a monkey gesture directed at Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior. Vinicius Junior has unfortunately been the victim of racist abuse many times during his career in Spain. This match marked the first time Vini Jr. captained the team.
Chants of ‘Asencio die’ were also reportedly heard from the stands, targeting young player Raul Asencio. It was reported that these chants were the reason the game was paused. Spanish referee Jose Maria Sanchez Martinez stopped the match and initiated La Liga’s anti-racism protocol near the end of the first half.
Stadium officials warned fans that if the abusive chants did not stop, the match could be suspended or abandoned entirely. Although this protocol is part of La Liga rules, it is rarely enforced. Such stoppages are more common in Concacaf matches as part of their anti-discrimination efforts.
This is not the first instance of Vinicius Junior experiencing racial abuse from fans. A particularly notable incident occurred during an away game against Valencia at Estadio Mestalla. Following that event, Valencia received fines, and three fans were arrested for their involvement in the abuse against the Brazilian player. In 2023, Atletico Madrid ultras were also arrested for hanging a mannequin wearing a Vini Jr. shirt from a bridge with a banner that read, ‘Madrid hates Real.’
Real Madrid won the first leg of the Copa Del Rey semi-final 1-0, with a goal from Endrick. It remains to be seen if there will be further consequences following this incident. After the game, Vini Jr. expressed positivity on social media, sharing a photo from the match with the caption, ‘Living unforgettable moments with the club of my dreams!’
