Benfica's Prestianni Suspension Appeal Rejected for Real Madrid Clash
Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni will be absent from Wednesday's crucial Champions League play-off second leg against Real Madrid after UEFA dismissed the club's appeal against his provisional suspension. The suspension stems from allegations of racial abuse directed at Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior during the first leg in Lisbon last week.
Incident Details and UEFA Investigation
The controversy erupted during Benfica's 1-0 victory in the first leg, where Vinicius Junior accused the 20-year-old Argentine midfielder of calling him a monkey. Prestianni has firmly denied these allegations, but UEFA promptly opened an investigation into the matter.
As a result, UEFA imposed a provisional suspension on Prestianni pending the investigation's outcome, effectively ruling him out of the return fixture at the Santiago Bernabéu. In a statement released on Wednesday, February 25, UEFA confirmed: "The appeal lodged by SL Benfica is dismissed. Consequently, the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body's decision of 23 February 2026 is confirmed. Mr. Gianluca Prestianni remains provisionally suspended for the next UEFA club competition match for which he would otherwise be eligible."
On-Field Evidence and Potential Consequences
Television footage from the first leg captured Prestianni covering his mouth with his shirt while engaged in a heated argument with Vinicius. Following this, the Brazilian forward informed the referee of the alleged abuse, leading to a stoppage in play that lasted approximately 10 minutes.
If UEFA's ongoing investigation concludes that Prestianni committed racial abuse, the regulations stipulate a minimum suspension of 10 matches. This severe penalty underscores UEFA's commitment to combating racism in football, with the investigation still active and outcomes pending further review.
The dismissal of Benfica's appeal highlights the seriousness with which UEFA is treating the allegation, ensuring that disciplinary measures are upheld to maintain integrity in the sport. The absence of Prestianni could significantly impact Benfica's strategy and performance in the high-stakes match against Real Madrid.
