UEFA fines Benfica 73,000 euros and hands suspended seat closure after Real Madrid tie | OneFootball

On Wednesday, UEFA fined Benfica 73,000 euros and imposed a suspended partial stadium closure following incidents during the 1-0 first leg against Real Madrid on 17 February in the Champions League play-off.

Of the total, 40,000 euros relate to racist and discriminatory behaviour by supporters, 8,000 to the use of a laser pointer, and 25,000 to objects thrown that endangered stadium safety.

The disciplinary body also ordered a 500-seat closure at Estádio da Luz, suspended for one year. The measure will take effect only if a similar offence is committed during that period.

Vinícius Jr, who accused Prestianni of racially insulting him, was a principal target for home fans. Pedro Machado, José Mourinho’s assistant, received a one-match ban for unsporting conduct during the game.

Benfica avoided a heavier sanction as the panel took into account the club’s swift response, identifying and suspending the Red Passes of members who imitated monkeys and opening disciplinary cases that could lead to expulsion.

In the case involving Vinícius Jr and Prestianni, UEFA opened an inquiry and later provisionally suspended Benfica’s No 25, keeping him out of the second leg. Benfica’s appeal was unsuccessful.

Source: Glorioso 1904