Argentine forward banned for racist comments against Vinicius

European football's governing body has temporarily banned Benfica's Argentine forward Gianluca Prestianni for allegedly making racist comments against Real Madrid's Brazilian star footballer Vinicius Junior.

Consequently, he will not be able to play in the crucial Champions League return leg against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

UEFA announced Prestianni's suspension in a statement on Monday, February 23, saying, "We have decided to temporarily suspend Mr Gianluca Prestianni for the next UEFA club competition match."

According to an Al Jazeera report, Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior faced an unpleasant situation during the Champions League knockout play-off at Benfica's ground last week. The Brazilian forward alleged that an opposing player, Prestianni, made racist comments targeting him. Following the incident, UEFA has appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to investigate the matter.

The organisation said further punishment may follow for Prestianni after the investigation concludes. According to UEFA rules, if proven guilty of racism, the Argentine could face at least a 10-match ban.

It has been learned that after Vinicius scored the only goal in that match, play was stopped for nearly 10 minutes. Real Madrid players were preparing to leave the field. During this time, Prestianni was allegedly covering his face with his shirt and saying something to Vinicius. Real star Kylian Mbappe directly alleged that Prestianni called Vinicius a 'monkey' at least five times.

Although Vinicius did not speak directly after the match, he wrote in an Instagram post, "Racists are actually cowards. They have to cover their faces with their shirts to hide their weakness."

Benfica, however, has stood by their player. In a statement, the club said they will cooperate fully with the investigation but that it should also be examined whether Prestianni is a victim of some 'conspiracy'.

Prestianni himself has denied all allegations against him. In his defence on social media, Prestianni wrote, "I want to make it clear that I did not make any racist comments targeting Vinicius. Unfortunately, what he thinks he heard is incorrect. I have never treated anyone in a racist manner. On the contrary, the threats I received from Real Madrid players are regrettable."