Benfica assistant coach João Tralhão shut down questions surrounding Gianluca Prestianni’s suspension on the eve of their crucial UEFA Champions League playoff second leg against Real Madrid, insisting the Portuguese side remains focused solely on football.
Benfica travel to Madrid trailing 1 0 from the first leg at Estadio da Luz, where the match was overshadowed by allegations of discriminatory remarks directed at Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior. Prestianni was handed a provisional one match suspension by UEFA earlier this week following the incident.
The 20 year old Argentine winger has denied making a racist comment, stating that Vinicius misunderstood what he believed he heard. Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni later indicated that Prestianni admitted to making a homophobic remark rather than a racist one. UEFA has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to investigate the matter, with further decisions expected after the proceedings conclude.
When asked directly about the situation during Tuesday’s press conference in Madrid, Tralhão declined to engage. He made it clear that Benfica would not discuss the topic publicly and instead emphasized the team’s identity and collective approach.
According to Tralhão, Benfica’s playing style and competitive mindset do not revolve around any single individual. Whether one player is available or another steps in, he stressed that the team maintains the same profile and tactical philosophy.
The controversy has added extra tension to an already high stakes fixture at the Santiago Bernabeu. Midfielder Fredrik Aursnes described the buildup as a slightly different week for the squad, acknowledging the unusual circumstances but underlining the importance of staying focused.
Benfica also face the second leg without head coach Jose Mourinho on the bench. The experienced manager is serving a suspension after receiving a red card during the first leg in Lisbon. Mourinho had stirred debate after that match by suggesting Vinicius may have provoked the crowd with his goal celebration.
Despite his touchline absence, Mourinho led training sessions in the buildup to the return leg, with Prestianni participating alongside teammates. Tralhão confirmed that the coaching staff have prepared for all possible match scenarios and remain confident in their preparation.
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois earlier condemned both racism and homophobia, stating that any form of discriminatory insult is equally serious and unacceptable in football. The Belgian also criticized sections of the Benfica crowd for offensive gestures during the first leg.
With Benfica needing a win against the Spanish giants in one of Europe’s most intimidating stadiums, the focus now shifts fully to performance on the pitch as both sides battle for a place in the Champions League last 16.
