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Prestianni suspended but may travel with Benfica to Madrid

Gianluca Prestianni has been suspended by UEFA for discriminatory behavior towards Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior, yet the Benfica player might still join his team's trip to Madrid for Wednesday's Champions League playoff second leg. According to RMC Sport, Prestianni's suspension was confirmed on Monday by European football's governing body.

The incident occurred during last week's first leg match at Benfica's Estádio da Luz, which ended in a 4-0 victory for the Portuguese side. UEFA's disciplinary committee imposed the suspension for "comportement discriminatoire" immediately after reviewing match footage.

Despite the suspension, Spanish media reports indicate Prestianni is expected to travel with the Benfica squad to Madrid for Wednesday's crucial return match at Santiago Bernabéu. The Argentine winger remains a key figure for the Portuguese club, having featured regularly in their Champions League campaign.

Benfica currently holds a commanding 4-0 aggregate advantage heading into the second leg against Real Madrid. The match kicks off at 21:00 local time on Wednesday at Real Madrid's home stadium. UEFA officials will monitor the situation closely to ensure all disciplinary measures are properly enforced.

The suspension comes during a critical phase of Benfica's season as they maintain strong domestic form while competing in European competition. Club officials have yet to comment publicly on whether they will appeal UEFA's decision regarding Prestianni's availability for future matches.