⚽ Football News

Prestianni handed six-game ban by UEFA for use of 'homophobic insults' towards Vinicius

Gianluca Prestianni, the 20-year-old Argentine winger from Benfica, was handed a six-match ban by UEFA on Friday, following alleged racist insults directed at Vinicius Junior, the Brazilian international from Real Madrid, during the Champions League play-off match in Lisbon.

3 months ago

Benfica's Prestianni denies 'ugly' accusations he racially abused Vinicius Jr

Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni claimed on Wednesday that he had been punished "without evidence" following accusations that he racially abused Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior.

4 months ago

Infantino suggests punishment for players who cover their mouths when talking

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has suggested players who cover their mouths while talking to opponents could be sent off, in light of racism allegations against Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni.

Mourinho says Prestianni's career under him 'will be over' if player is found guilty

Benfica coach Jose Mourinho said Sunday that if midfielder Gianluca Prestianni is found guilty of racism, his career under the Portuguese will be "over".

Benfica coach shuts down questions about Prestianni ahead of Real Madrid clash

Benfica assistant coach Joao Tralhao said his side's identity ⁠did not depend on any individual player as he declined to comment on the suspension of winger Gianluca Prestianni ahead ‌of Wednesday's Champions League play-off second leg at Real Madrid.

Courtois weighs in on Prestianni suspension: Homophobia 'just as serious' as racism

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois condemned racism and homophobia as equally unacceptable after Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni was suspended for allegedly ⁠directing a racist slur at the Spanish team's Vinicius Jr during a Champions League match last week.