Football Vinicius Junior alleged he was racially abused by Gianluca Prestianni during Real Madrid's win over Benfica on Tuesday; UEFA is investigating and Prestianni -

 

The Real Madrid winger scored the goal in his side's 1-0 win, after which he celebrated in front of the Benfica fans before he was allegedly abused by Prestianni.

Prestianni pulled his shirt over his mouth while confronting Vinicius but denies the allegation of racism.

Vinicius Junior racism claim - the key points...

Champions League game halted after after Vinicius allegedly racially abused by Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni.

Trent Alexander-Arnold called the incident “a disgrace to football”, while Kylian Mbappe said after the game that he and other Benfica players heard what Prestianni said to Vinicius.

Benfica boss Jose Mourinho has been criticised for suggesting Vinicius had provoked the abuse with his celebration. Kick It Out have since released a statement accusing the Portuguese boss of 'gaslighting'.

Vinicius responded to alleged abuse by saying “racists are cowards” in a statement.

Prestianni released his own statement saying he had not directed racist insults at Vinicius, who he said had “regrettably misunderstood what he thought he heard”.

Benfica posted footage of the incident on X, also dismissing the allegations.

UEFA has confirmed that it is investigating allegations of discriminatory behaviour.

Benfica have reiterated their support to Prestianni and have claimed a 'defamation campaign' against him