UEFA rejects Benfica’s appeal and maintains Prestianni’s suspension for duel against Real Madrid in the Champions League By Beatriz
6 min read
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Uefa announced on the afternoon of Wednesday, February 25, 2026, the rejection of the appeal presented by Benfica against the provisional suspension of Argentine player Gianluca Prestianni. The decision keeps the athlete away from the return game against Real Madrid, in the Liga playoff phase of the Campeões, scheduled for this Thursday, February 26th, at 9pm local time on Madri, at Estádio Santiago Bernabéu.
The case arose after the first leg, played the previous Tuesday at Estádio of Luz, in Lisboa, where Benfica drew 2-2 with Real Madrid. Durante the match, Vinícius Júnior, striker of the Spanish team, accused Prestianni of making racist insults, which led to the opening of an investigation by Uefa and the application of a preventive sanction for one game.
Prestianni reacted to the news of the appeal’s rejection with a post on social media, which was quickly deleted, but captured by several press outlets. Nela, the player questioned the impartiality of the European entity when comparing his punishment with another incident that occurred in the same match, involving Uruguayan Federico Valverde, from Real Madrid.
Details of the sanction applied
The suspension of Prestianni was imposed by Comitê of Controle, Ética and Disciplina of The agency justified the measure as preventive while it continues to analyze the evidence, which includes witness reports and the testimony of Vinícius Júnior.
Benfica filed the appeal the following morning, arguing that there was a lack of concrete evidence, such as images or audio to prove the allegations. However, Órgão of Apelações of Uefa maintained the original decision, issuing an official statement that confirmed the sanction and prevented the player from participating in the decisive confrontation.
Game context and tactical implications
The draw in the first game left the dispute open for the second leg at Madri. Benfica needs a win or draw with goals to advance, considering the tiebreaker criteria in Liga of Campeões.
Without Prestianni, the coach of Benfica, Roger Schmidt, must adjust the formation, possibly promoting young players from the base or repositioning other athletes. Essa absence affects the offensive sector, where the Argentine has been a key player since his arrival at the Portuguese club.
The match takes place at a time of high tension for both teams, with Real Madrid looking to consolidate their campaign in the European competition. Recent history shows that the Spanish team has an advantage in knockout matches at home.
Reactions in the world of football
Several experts commented on the Uefa decision, highlighting the strictness of the rules against racism in sport. Associações of players, like Fifpro, expressed support for the rapid investigation, emphasizing the need for inclusive environments on the field.
In Benfica, the board issued an official note respecting the decision, but reiterating confidence in Prestianni’s innocence. The club plans to continue defending the athlete in later stages of the disciplinary process.
Anti-racism entities, such as Fare Network, praised Uefa’s stance in prioritizing complaints of this type. Elas point out that similar cases in the past resulted in more severe punishments after confirmation.
Players from other European clubs shared messages of solidarity with Vinícius Júnior, who has been a recurring target of racist incidents. Essa wave of support reinforces the debate on preventive measures in international competitions.
Analysis of disciplinary rules
Uefa’s standards on ethical conduct are clear and updated annually to combat discrimination. Article 14 of the disciplinary regulations provides for minimum suspensions of ten games for proven racist offenses, but allows for provisional measures during investigations.
In the case of Prestianni, the absence of visual evidence did not prevent the initial sanction, based on testimonies. Especialistas sports lawyers explain that this follows the precautionary principle, aiming to protect the integrity of the competition.
Comparisons with other incidents, such as that of Valverde, reveal differences: aggression without the ball was assessed by the referee during the game and did not generate a red card. Uefa argues that actions on the field are judged differently from post-match verbal conduct.
The process can last for weeks, with the possibility of appealing to Tribunal Arbitral of Esporte. Enquanto this, Benfica focuses on preparing for the game, avoiding distractions that could affect the team’s performance.
Incident with Valverde and comparisons
Federico Valverde hit Samuel Dahl, from Benfica, without the ball, during the first game, an incident captured on camera. Apesar visibility, the Uruguayan player did not receive additional punishment and is free to return.
This disparity was the central point of Prestianni’s criticism, which highlighted the apparent inconsistency in decisions. Analistas note that Uefa prioritizes reports of racism over physical absences, according to protocols established since 2019.
Impact on Prestianni’s career
Gianluca Prestianni, 20 years old, transferred to Benfica from Vélez Sarsfield, in Argentina, in a deal valued at 10 million euros. Sua adaptation to European football has been positive, with goals and assists in Portuguese league games.
The suspension represents a temporary setback, but could influence his public image if the allegations are confirmed. The player, represented by influential agents, plans a robust defense to clear his name.
Preparations for the confrontation
Real Madrid arrives at the game with an almost complete squad, except for minor injuries. Carlo Ancelotti, Italian coach, emphasized the importance of maintaining focus despite external controversies.
On the side of Benfica, Schmidt carried out closed training to test alternatives to Prestianni. Jogadores like Ángel Di María and João Neves assume greater responsibility in the attack.
The refereeing will be led by an experienced trio, using VAR to ensure accurate decisions. Espera had an audience of more than 80 thousand fans at Bernabéu, creating an intense atmosphere.
The winner advances to the round of 16 of Liga of Campeões, facing potential opponents such as Bayern of Munique or Manchester City. Essa phase of the competition distributes significant prizes, impacting the clubs’ finances.
Measures against racism in Uefa
Uefa has implemented campaigns such as “No to Racism” since 2001, with global partnerships to educate players and fans. In 2025, 45 complaints were registered in European competitions, resulting in 20 punishments.
Protocols include mandatory training for referees and game delegates. Clubes like Benfica actively participate, promoting diversity in their base academies.
Vinícius Júnior, a recurring victim, collaborates with Fifa initiatives to combat the problem. Seu case inspired stricter laws in national leagues, such as in Espanha.
Perspectives for Benfica in the season
The Benfica occupies the lead of the Portuguese Primeira Liga, with an advantage over the Porto. The campaign at Champions is crucial to maintaining the status among the greats of Europa.
Without Prestianni, the team seeks inspiration from recent victories against strong rivals. The board invested in reinforcements in the winter market to balance the squad.
History of confrontations between Benfica and Real Madrid
The teams faced each other 12 times in official competitions, with seven wins for Real Madrid, three for Benfica and two draws. Their last meeting before this series was in the Champions semi-final in 2014.
Memorable are the duels from the 1960s, when Eusébio led Benfica against the legendary team of Di Stéfano. Esses games shaped lasting rivalries in European football.
The recent draw at Estádio of Luz showed balance, with goals from both sides. Defensive Estratégias will be key in the return, where Real Madrid usually dominates.
Potential disciplinary consequences
Prestianni could face additional sanction for the social media post, according to Uefa’s rules on public conduct. Multas range from 5 thousand to 50 thousand euros for criticizing the entity.
Benfica monitors the case to prevent escalation. Advogados specialists prepare defenses based on precedents, such as that of other players acquitted due to lack of evidence.
Investigation Updates
Uefa plans to complete the analysis within two weeks, with statements from those involved. Evidências include reports from the referee and delegates present at the game.
If cleared, Prestianni returns immediately; otherwise, the punishment may extend to more matches. The Portuguese club is confident of a favorable outcome.
