Benfica’s appeal has been unsuccessful as UEFA has confirmed the suspension of Prestianni

UEFA has rejected Benfica’s appeal regarding the provisional one-match suspension imposed on Gianluca Prestianni. The sanction came in response to the racist incident involving Vinicius Jr. during the first leg of the Champions League match against Real Madrid.

The Portuguese club promptly contested the decision, aiming to have the winger eligible for the return leg.

Several outlets, including Cadena SER, report that UEFA’s ruling requires Benfica to move forward without Prestianni for this crucial match. Head coach José Mourinho, who is currently suspended after receiving a red card in the first leg, will find his options further limited as Benfica strives to overturn a 1–0 deficit and maintain their European aspirations.