Vin\u00edcius accused Prestianni of racially abusing him<\/a> during the teams’ UEFA Champions League<\/a> playoff first leg on Tuesday, leading the match to be paused for 10 minutes in the second half.<\/p>\n UEFA announced on Wednesday<\/a> it will investigate the allegations.<\/p>\n The Portuguese club said in a statement that it will fully cooperate with UEFA’s investigation but defended Prestianni, who has denied any wrongdoing.<\/p>\n “The club clearly and unequivocally reaffirms its historic and uncompromising commitment to defending the values of equality, respect, and inclusion, which are in line with the core values of its foundation and are best symbolized by Eus\u00e9bio,” the statement said.<\/p>\n “Benfica also reiterates its full support and belief in the version presented by player Gianluca Prestianni, whose conduct while playing for the Club has always been guided by respect for opponents, institutions, and the principles that define Benfica’s identity.<\/p>\n “The club condemns the smear campaign to which the player has been subjected.”<\/p>\n Prestianni, 20, faces a potential 10-match ban if found guilty of racial abuse in UEFA’s disciplinary code.<\/p>\n The Argentinian denied Vin\u00edcius’ allegations on social media, stating that the Brazil<\/a> international “misinterpreted what he thinks he heard.”<\/p>\n – Benfica: ‘Real Madrid players could not have heard’ alleged Vin\u00edcius Jr. racist abuse<\/a> During the alleged incident, Prestianni was seen speaking to Vin\u00edcius while covering his mouth with his jersey, before the Brazil international pointed to him and ran toward the referee.<\/p>\nBenfica have stated Gianluca Prestianni has been subject to a smear campaign following allegations he racially abused Vin\u00edcius J\u00fanior.\u00a0Getty<\/p>\n
– Trent Alexander-Arnold calls for ‘justice’ after Vin\u00edcius Jr. racism accusation
–<\/a> Seedorf on Mourinho reaction: Mistake to justify racial abuse<\/a><\/p>\n