Benfica back Prestianni, call defamation campaign over Vinicius incident

Benfica say Gianluca Prestianni has been the victim of a defamation campaign and have backed his claim that he did not racially abuse Vinicius Junior during Tuesday night's Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

Vinicius alleged that Prestianni directed a racial slur at him after he celebrated scoring the opening goal in the first leg of the knockout stage play-off tie.

In an official statement the club said it will cooperate with the steps announced by UEFA and emphasised collaboration, transparency, openness and clarity in the process.

Benfica reaffirmed its commitment to equality, respect and inclusion, citing Eusébio as a symbol, and said it fully supports and believes the version presented by Prestianni, while regretting the campaign of defamation against the player.

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