Benfica loses legal battle and Prestianni is excluded from the match against Real Madrid.

UEFA has just made a decision that has left Benfica fans in shock. The appeal submitted by the club from Luz has been rejected, and Gianluca Prestianni, the Argentine midfielder in question, will not be able to participate in the crucial clash against Real Madrid, which takes place tonight at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Prestianni’s suspension comes in the wake of the controversy involving the player and Vinícius Júnior during the first leg of the playoff for access to the round of 16 of the Champions League.

In an official statement, UEFA’s Appeals Committee announced that Benfica’s appeal was “rejected,” thus confirming the previous decision made by the Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, dated February 23. UEFA reaffirmed its position, maintaining the one-match suspension of Prestianni, which means that the player, who is currently in Madrid with the team, will not be able to participate in the decisive match.

The UEFA statement was clear: “The Appeals Committee made the following decision today: The appeal submitted by SL Benfica is rejected. Consequently, the decision of the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, dated February 23, 2026, is confirmed. Mr. Gianluca Prestianni remains provisionally suspended for the next UEFA club competition match for which he would otherwise be eligible.”

This situation has generated a wave of discontent among Benfica supporters, who are hoping for a positive performance from the team in Madrid, despite Prestianni’s absence. Benfica not only needs a favorable result but also a combination of outcomes that may include the elimination of AZ Alkmaar in the Conference League, to secure their passage to the next stage of the Champions League.

However, the tension is not limited to the pitch. Fredy, the current coach of Benfica, who previously worked as an assistant at Antalyaspor, faces a monumental challenge as the pressure mounts for the team to not only honor its history but also respond to the challenges imposed by UEFA.

Fans are eagerly awaiting a response from Benfica, which, despite the adversities, has everything to make its mark in Madrid. The city is buzzing, and the eyes of millions will be on what promises to be an electrifying spectacle. The absence of Prestianni could be a severe blow, but the team’s fighting spirit may ride the wave of adversity, leading the club to a result that could transform its trajectory in the competition.