Soccer-Valencia beat Real as Vinicius sent off after facing alleged racism

Soccer Football - LaLiga - Valencia v Real Madrid - Mestalla, Valencia, Spain - May 21, 2023 Valencia's Diego Lopez celebrates with Alberto Mari, Edinson Cavani and teammates after the match REUTERS/Pablo Morano

(Reuters) -Diego Lopez struck in the first half to give Valencia a precious 1-0 win over Real Madrid in LaLiga on Sunday but the game had an ugly end as Real's Vinicius Jr was sent off following a scuffle having faced alleged racist abuse from the stands.

Lopez scored from close range in the 33rd minute to help Valencia move further away from relegation danger but the match once again highlighted the issue of racism in Spain's top flight.