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UEFA bans Benfica's Prestianni for six matches after Vinícius Júnior incident
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
UEFA has issued a six-match ban to Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni following an incident with Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League play-off in February. The match was temporarily halted after Vinícius Júnior accused Prestianni of racial abuse, an allegation Prestianni denied, claiming his words were misinterpreted. However, Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni later stated that Prestianni admitted to making a homophobic remark. The sanction includes two immediate matches, with three additional games suspended for two years. Prestianni had already served a provisional one-match ban, and UEFA has asked FIFA to extend the punishment globally. The incident, which saw Vinícius Júnior briefly leave the pitch, has sparked debate about disciplinary standards in football, particularly regarding the disparity between sanctions for racist and homophobic abuse. Football lawmakers are also considering measures to prevent players from covering their mouths during on-field exchanges.
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