Benfica's Prestianni Suspended by UEFA After Vinícius Júnior Incident
Benfica Appeal Against Ban for Real Madrid Second Leg
TL;DR
- Gianluca Prestianni is suspended for one game by UEFA following allegations of racist abuse against Vinícius Júnior.
- The ban is a provisional measure pending a full investigation.
- Benfica intends to appeal the suspension, though they do not expect it to alter his availability for the second leg.
- The incident occurred during the first leg at the Estádio da Luz, leading to a delay and activation of the anti-racism protocol.
- Prestianni denies the accusation, and Benfica has defended their player, suggesting he is a victim of a 'smear campaign'.
- Alternative claims suggest Prestianni may have used a homophobic slur instead of racist language.
- José Mourinho, Benfica's coach, is serving his own touchline ban and will not speak to the media, having been accused of 'gaslighting'.