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Prestianni Out of Benfica's Champions League Replay Against Real Madrid

Published February 25, 2026, 17:20
Prestianni Out of Benfica's Champions League Replay Against Real Madrid

Benfica's Portuguese footballer, Joao Prestianni, will not be able to play in the replay against Real Madrid for the Champions League Playoffs. UEFA has temporarily suspended him as it investigates a racist attack reported by Vinicius Junior in the first match. Prestianni is alleged to have made a racist statement towards Vinicius after his goal, covering his mouth to prevent his lips from being read. Benfica filed an appeal, but it was rejected, leaving Prestianni out of the squad.