Benfica–Real: Prestianni responds to accusations against Vinícius | OneFootball

Benfica–Real: Prestianni strongly denies allegations of racism

Prestianni / @x.com/ActuFoot_

The first leg of the UEFA Champions League play-offs between Benfica and Real Madrid, won by the Madrid club (1-0), was overshadowed by fierce controversy. After the final whistle, Vinícius Júnior accused Argentine winger Gianluca Prestianni of having directed a racist insult at him during the match.

The Brazilian forward claims he was the target of an offensive remark, specifying that the Benfica player allegedly covered his mouth with his shirt while uttering the incriminating words.

The controversy escalated following Kylian Mbappé’s intervention. The French international asserted that he heard the slur five times, calling for exemplary sanctions if the facts are confirmed.

"Benfica’s number 25—I don’t want to mention his name—made unacceptable remarks. He then covered his mouth with his shirt to call Vinícius a monkey. Five times. I heard it, and other Benfica players did too," Mbappé declared.

He added: "Such behavior has no place in the Champions League. In front of the fans and children, we must be flawless. Otherwise, football’s values lose all meaning."

Prestianni’s reaction

Several hours after the match, Gianluca Prestianni responded on his Instagram account, firmly denying the allegations.

"I want to make it clear that at no point did I direct racist insults at Vinícius Júnior. There was a misunderstanding regarding words he thinks he heard," he wrote.

The Argentine player also expressed regret over the threats he received after the match, reiterating that he has never made racist remarks throughout his career.

As of now, UEFA has yet to issue any official decision. A possible investigation could be launched in the coming days, with the return leg in Madrid already set against an especially tense backdrop.