UEFA dismiss Benfica's appeal against Prestianni suspension

Benfica's appeal against Gianluca Prestianni's provisional suspension for tonight's second-leg against Real Madrid has been dismissed.

UEFA decided to give the Argentinian a one-game provisional suspension after alleged racist abuse against Vinícius Júnior last week, which came following the Brazilian celebrating the only goal of the game in Lisbon.

The Portuguese side had appealed in order for Prestianni to play this evening in Madrid but that appeal has now been dismissed by the governing body.

"The appeal lodged by SL Benfica is dismissed," UEFA said in a statement. "Consequently, the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body’s decision of 23 February 2026 is confirmed.

"Mr. Gianluca Prestianni remains provisionally suspended for the next UEFA club competition match for which he would otherwise be eligible."