Brazilian forward Rodrygo struck a late winner for Real Madrid in a 2-1 LaLiga victory over Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday which moved them back to second in the standings.

His compatriot, Vinicius received racist abuse against Valencia on Sunday but was watching on from the president’s box because of a knee problem.

Rodrygo struck in the 89th minute to send Madrid second and bowed his head while lifting his fist in a “Black Power” salute.

Karim Benzema sent Madrid into the lead in the first half before Raul de Tomas equalised for the visitors at the Santiago Bernabeu, with Rodrygo deciding the game in the final stages.

The win sent Real Madrid second, a point above rivals Atletico Madrid, who drew 3-3 at Getafe later on Wednesday.

Vinicius was not present on the pitch but was not far from the players’ thoughts, as Madrid lined up before the game wearing his number 20 shirt as a gesture of support.

Vinicius Jr

The forward was sent off against Valencia and although the card was revoked on Tuesday night, he was not able to recover from his knee issue to play.

It was the first time Madrid have played since the abuse occurred and many sports stars and other significant figures across the world have offered Vinicius their support.

Supporters chanted his name after 20 minutes and a banner in one stand read “We are all Vinicius, enough already!”

“I think everyone in football, not just in football, in all of sport, the whole world, (is reacting to) these actions, they should not be allowed,” Madrid defender Dani Carvajal told Movistar after the game.

“We have to all improve, try to make this not happen, because, in the end, it’s not fair.”