Benfica have taken firm disciplinary action after suspending five supporters for racist behaviour during their recent UEFA Champions League play-off first-leg defeat to Real Madrid.
The incident occurred earlier this month when Real took the lead through Vinicius Junior, whose celebration in front of the home supporters resulted in a booking from referee Francois Letexier for what was deemed excessive.
However, television footage later appeared to show some fans in the stands making racist gestures towards the Brazilian winger.
Moments later, the match took another dramatic turn as play was halted for around 10 minutes after Vinícius alleged he had been racially abused by Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni.
The Argentine has strongly denied the accusation, but the situation added further tension to an already charged European night.
Following an internal investigation, Benfica confirmed the suspensions in a strongly worded statement.
They said they had “suspended five members and cancelled their respective red passes following the initiation of disciplinary proceedings which may lead to the application of the maximum sanction provided for in the statutes: expulsion.
“The opening of these disciplinary proceedings results from the internal inquiry triggered following the match between Benfica and Real Madrid, held on February 17th, and the adoption of inappropriate behaviours in the stands of a racist nature, incompatible with the values and principles that govern the club.
“Benfica reaffirms that it does not tolerate any form of discrimination or racism and will continue to act firmly whenever behaviours that undermine the values of the club, sport and society are involved.”
Meanwhile, Prestianni, who is under separate investigation, did not feature in the second leg at the Bernabeu after being provisionally suspended by UEFA. Real Madrid went on to complete a 3-1 aggregate victory to progress.
What exactly was said during the exchange between Prestianni and Vinícius remains disputed, with the Benfica player insisting he did not use racist language.
Footage showed the Argentine covering his mouth as he appeared to speak to the Real forward, leaving the matter unresolved as investigations continue.
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