Benfica’s Prestianni Suspended Ahead of Real Madrid Clash Amid Racism Allegations
Benfica forward Gianluca Prestianni has been provisionally suspended by UEFA for one match following allegations of racist abuse towards Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior during their Champions League clash last week. The suspension means Prestianni will miss Wednesday’s second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, where Benfica trails 1-0.
UEFA Investigation and Allegations
The suspension comes after Vinícius Júnior accused Prestianni of racially abusing him during the first leg match at Benfica’s Estádio da Luz on February 17, 2026. Vinícius reportedly complained that Prestianni called him a “monkey,” prompting the referee to activate UEFA’s anti-racism protocol Euronews.
Real Madrid has submitted “all available evidence” to UEFA regarding the alleged incident AP News.
Benfica’s Response and Appeal
Benfica has announced its intention to appeal the suspension, expressing regret at being “deprived” of Prestianni’s services. However, the club acknowledged it does not expect to prevent the 20-year-old Argentinian from missing the second leg The Guardian.
The club has defended Prestianni, claiming he was the “victim” of a “smear campaign” and posted a video on X suggesting Real Madrid players could not have heard the alleged remarks from their position.
Team News and Coaching Situation
Benfica will too be without manager José Mourinho, who is currently serving a suspension. João Tralhão, Mourinho’s assistant, will lead the team in the pre-match press conference and on the sidelines. Tralhão stated that Benfica will maintain its “identity” and aim to “dominate the game” despite the challenges.
Real Madrid will be without Kylian Mbappé due to physical reasons. A complaint filed by Benfica against Real Madrid’s Fede Valverde for an alleged attack on Samuel Dahl in the first match is also under review by UEFA.
Match Details
The second leg is scheduled for Wednesday at 8:00 PM (Lisbon time) and will be officiated by Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic.