Rio Ferdinand defends Vini Jr after Prestianni racist insult in Benfica v Real Madrid | OneFootball

Rio Ferdinand has defended Vini Jr after the Real Madrid forward was subjected to racist abuse by Benfica’s Prestianni during a Champions League tie.

According to Coluna Do Fla, the former Manchester United defender spoke on Wednesday, a day after the incident at Estádio da Luz.

Real Madrid faced Benfica in Portugal in the first leg of the Champions League play-offs. Vini struck the only goal and danced by the corner flag that carries the home club’s crest.

Home fans and players reacted angrily. The referee booked the winger for provocation, which infuriated him. Amid the ensuing confrontation, the Argentine Prestianni called him a monkey and received no sanction.

Ferdinand ridiculed attempts to blame Vini Jr for provoking Benfica supporters after scoring, saying there can be no justification for racist language and that people like Prestianni strip beauty from the sport. He urged authorities to be far tougher on such behaviour, which he described as ignorance and stupidity.

He also argued that celebrations are part of football, noting that players dream of sharing those moments with supporters. If bookings follow every exuberant celebration, he said, the game loses something.

Source: Coluna Do Fla