Benfica midfielder ‘offended’ with Real Madrid star amid racism allegations – report | OneFootball

The fallout from the heated night at the Estadio da Luz is far from over. 

Days after the explosive Benfica vs Real Madrid clash, and just three days before the decisive return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu, the situation continues to dominate headlines across Europe.

At the centre of the storm is Gianluca Prestianni.

According to reports from SPORT, the Benfica midfielder called an emergency meeting with his teammates in the dressing room. 

The move comes after the alleged racist incident involving Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. during the first leg of the Champions League tie.

What’s the story?

The controversy erupted last Tuesday when Vinicius scored to make it 0-1 and celebrated in front of the home crowd. 

His gesture led to a yellow card and sparked visible anger among Benfica players. One of the most animated reactions came from Prestianni, who confronted the Brazilian during the heated exchange.

In the middle of that confrontation, Vinicius allegedly received racist insults and immediately alerted the referee. 

UEFA’s anti-racism protocol was activated on the spot, adding further tension to an already electric atmosphere.

Prestianni is very offended by racism allegations. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

However, Prestianni has denied making any racist remarks. Cameras failed to capture clear evidence, as the Benfica midfielder covered his mouth with his shirt during the exchange. 

After the match, Benfica publicly supported their player, while Vinicius and the Real Madrid squad left the stadium visibly outraged.

Both UEFA and FIFA have opened investigations, but so far, no official decision has been announced. With the return leg set for Wednesday in Madrid, attention will inevitably fall once again on Prestianni.

All eyes on Prestianni

According to reports, Prestianni is said to be “very offended” by the accusation. 

In fact, he gathered the entire squad to explain his position, deny the allegations once more and address the growing media pressure.

Sources in Portugal suggest that during the meeting, the Argentine apologised to his teammates for the distraction caused by the incident. 

He expressed regret over the media storm surrounding the confrontation and acknowledged the risk of destabilising the squad ahead of their most important game of the season.

Now, with the tie still in the balance and global attention fixed on the Bernabeu, the spotlight on Prestianni will be unavoidable.