- UEFA confirmed on Wednesday that an investigator has been appointed to review the matter
- he alleged that the Benfica player covered his mouth while repeating a racist insult multiple times
- They urged football authorities to ensure accountability and reinforce standards of respect
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé has called for disciplinary measures after alleging that Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni directed racist remarks at teammate Vinícius Júnior during their Champions League playoff clash on Tuesday.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the incident reportedly occurred shortly after Vinícius scored the decisive goal in the 50th minute of the first leg in Lisbon. Following complaints from the Brazilian winger, the match was halted for around 10 minutes while officials addressed the situation.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Grand Wedding Reception: Halimot, Saheed Mark Their Union
- Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA Celebrates Former Chairman, Hon. Segun Adetola, on Birthday
- Sanwo-Olu Flags Off Free Eye Screening for 1,000 Lagos Police Officers
Prestianni, 20, rejected the accusation in a post on social media, insisting that Vinícius had misunderstood what was said. However, Mbappé maintained that he clearly heard offensive language aimed at his teammate.
Speaking to Spanish broadcaster TVE, the French star alleged that the Benfica player covered his mouth while repeating a racist insult multiple times, adding that other players on the pitch also heard the remarks.
UEFA confirmed on Wednesday that an investigator has been appointed to review the matter. Under European football’s disciplinary regulations, a player found guilty of racial abuse could face a suspension of up to 10 matches.
Benfica have argued that the atmosphere inside the stadium and the distance between players would have made it impossible for Madrid’s squad to hear any alleged abuse.
Despite expressing respect for the Portuguese club and their coach, José Mourinho, Mbappé said any player found responsible should not continue in the competition. He stressed that football must set a positive example and uphold its core values.
The controversy followed Vinícius’ celebration after scoring, where he danced near the corner flag before exchanging words with several Benfica players, including Prestianni. Mourinho later criticised the celebration, describing it as provocative.
Mbappé publicly backed his teammate, urging him to continue expressing himself on the pitch. He also highlighted that Vinícius has been subjected to racist abuse on several occasions since moving to Spain in 2018, with some perpetrators later prosecuted.
Anti-discrimination organisation Kick It Out issued a statement supporting the Brazilian forward and calling for a thorough investigation.
The group emphasised that reports of discrimination must be taken seriously and warned against shifting focus away from the alleged abuse. They urged football authorities to ensure accountability and reinforce standards of respect and inclusion across the sport.
FURTHER READING
