UEFA has provisionally suspended Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni for one match following allegations of racist abuse directed at Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior. The suspension means Prestianni will miss Wednesday's Champions League playoff second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Vinícius Júnior opened the scoring in the first leg, a match Real Madrid won 1-0. His goal celebration, a dance at the corner flag, reportedly frustrated Benfica players. Video footage shows Prestianni speaking to Vinícius while covering his mouth. Vinícius Júnior then alerted the referee, alleging Prestianni called him a "monkey."
UEFA's anti-racism protocol was activated, and the match was halted for review. While officials could not immediately verify the alleged slur due to Prestianni's covered mouth, French international Kylian Mbappé stated he also heard the remark and called for a permanent ban for the Benfica player. FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed shock and praised the referee's actions.
Benfica has expressed support for Prestianni, claiming players who alleged hearing the insult were too far away. The club stated it believes Prestianni's account, noting his conduct has always been respectful. Benfica, trailing by one goal and without manager José Mourinho, will appeal the suspension, though its practical impact is deemed minimal due to the late announcement.