UEFA has rejected Benfica’s appeal against the provisional suspension of winger Gianluca Prestianni which means the 20-year-old will not play in the second leg of Benfica’s UEFA Champions League play-off against Real Madrid.
UEFA confirmed its decision to cancel Benfica’s request to overturn Gianluca Prestianni temporary suspension ahead of the crucial second leg against Real Madrid. The Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body’s decision from 23 February 2026 is therefore upheld. UEFA confirmed Prestianni remains provisionally suspended for the next club competition match for which he would otherwise be eligible.
The suspension was initially applied after an incident in the first leg against Real Madrid, with alleged discriminatory behaviour toward Vinícius Júnior. Prestianni has denied the allegations. UEFA said this interim measure is “without prejudice” to further rulings once the full investigation concludes.
Benfica will also be without its manager Jose Mourinho who has been castigated by most football stakeholders for his comments on Vinícius Júnior after the game. However, the Portuguese was suspended because of the red card he received during the first leg of the match.
