Champions League review: Bodø shock again, PSG escape and Mourinho’s dismal comments

Guardian Sport

by John Brewin

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

This week’s Champions League action was overshadowed by serious accusations of racism involving Portuguese football officials and players, following Vinícius Júnior’s stunning goal for Real Madrid in their 1-0 victory over Benfica. The Brazilian forward, known for his incredible strikes, scored one of the finest goals of his career, but it was quickly overshadowed by the disturbing allegations that emerged after the match. These accusations have sparked widespread concern and debate within the football community, highlighting the ongoing issues of racism in the sport. Meanwhile, Bodø/Glima continued their remarkable Champions League journey with a shock win against Manchester United at Old Trafford. The Norwegian outfit, playing in the Arctic Circle, demonstrated resilience and creativity, defying expectations to secure a hard-fought victory. Elsewhere, Paris Saint-Germain narrowly escaped with a 3-2 win against Malmö FF, showcasing their attacking prowess while defending deep into the game. In another standout match, Real Madrid’s dominance was once again evident as they edged out Benfica thanks to Vinícius Júnior’s brilliance. The week also saw José Mourinho face criticism for his comments regarding Chelsea’s lack of European success under his tenure. The Portuguese tactician’s remarks sparked controversy among fans and analysts, with many questioning his handling of the team’s Champions League campaign. Meanwhile, the broader implications of these incidents underscore the need for greater accountability and action in addressing racism within football. These issues not only affect individual players but also impact the integrity and reputation of the sport as a whole. For sports enthusiasts, this week’s developments serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing modern football. The Champions League continues to deliver thrilling matches and dramatic moments, but the persistent issues of racism and inequality cannot be ignored. As the world watches, the hope is that governing bodies will take stronger measures to ensure a fairer and more inclusive environment for all players and fans.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/19/2026