India, Oct. 27 -- Real Madrid may have beaten Barcelona 2-1 at the Bernabeu, but the biggest talking point was Vinicius Junior's anger at being substituted and the skirmish that followed the final whistle. Hours later, the Brazilian moved to lower the temperature with a post-match message addressed to the Madridistas, delivered on the club's channel, clarifying that there was no intent to disrespect anyone.

Speaking to Real Madrid TV after full time, Vinicius framed the night's chaos as part of the rivalry's emotional churn and emphasised respect for opponents and supporters alike. "This is how El Clasico is; there are many things happening on and off the pitch. We try to maintain balance, but that is not always possible. We didn't want ...