Benfica Sanctioned for Fan Racism; Prestianni Awaits His Verdict

UEFA's investigation into Prestianni is ongoing, with a verdict in a separate case against Benfica for fan misconduct during the February 17 match in Lisbon released on Wednesday. Benfica was fined 40,000 euros for "forbidden chants and gestures by two supporters," UEFA stated, according to the Associated Press.

The club must adhere to a one-year probation period to avoid a partial stadium closure of their Estadio da Luz for a future European fixture. Benfica had previously suspended five fans who were under investigation for "inappropriate behavior of a racist nature in the stands."

Television footage showed some fans making monkey gestures after Real's 1-0 victory in the first leg of the Champions League knockout stage. The match was halted for nearly 10 minutes after Vinicius informed the referee that Prestianni had called him a "monkey" as the Brazilian forward celebrated scoring in front of Benfica fans.

Prestianni, who denied the accusation, covered his mouth with his jersey at the moment of the alleged insult. The Argentine winger was suspended for the return leg in Madrid during the ongoing investigation. He faces a potential 10-match ban from UEFA competitions.