Sport Lisboa e Benfica has come out in defense of player Gianluca Prestianni, who was accused of racism by Vini Jr., after UEFA announced an investigation into the matter. The Portuguese club says it has full confidence in Prestianni's version of events. Gianluca Prestianni wrote on social media that he has never been racist to anyone and lamented the threats he received from Real Madrid players. Benfica says that Vini Jr.'s accusation is nothing more than a smear campaign against the opponent. The Portuguese club will cooperate with the UEFA investigation. The match between Benfica and Real Madrid was interrupted for 11 minutes after Vini Jr. reported the racist comment to referee Francois Letexier. Kylian Mbappe, of Real Madrid, said he heard the racist comment and that Prestianni covered his mouth with his shirt when calling Vini Jr. a monkey. Benfica and Real Madrid will face each other on the field again on Wednesday, 25. Sport Lisboa e Benfica reaffirms its historical and uncompromising commitment to defending the values of equality, respect, and inclusion. The club regrets the smear campaign to which player Gianluca Prestianni has been subjected. Benfica is fully committed to cooperation, transparency, openness, and clarification regarding the measures announced by UEFA. The Portuguese club will work closely with UEFA to clarify the facts. Sport Lisboa e Benfica is confident that the truth will be revealed and that justice will be served.