Benfica appeal rejected, Gianluca Prestianni will not face Real Madrid in Champions League | OneFootball

UEFA's appeals body rejected Benfica's challenge to Gianluca Prestianni's provisional suspension on Wednesday afternoon, so he cannot play Wednesday's Champions League play-off return leg at Real Madrid, kick-off 21:00.

Prestianni was provisionally banned after allegedly using potentially racist language during last Tuesday's first leg, which Real Madrid won 1-0. According to L'Équipe, Benfica appealed and sought a suspensive effect while the case is heard.

He had hoped to be cleared to start the return leg.

The Argentine is suspected of directing a Spanish term meaning monkey at the Brazilian Vinicius during the match.

A decision on the substance of the case will follow later. Prestianni risks at least a 10-match suspension.

Source: L'Équipe