Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has been given a six-match ban by Uefa for homophobic conduct during a Champions League match against Real Madrid.
The incident happened in February during a knockout play-off game at the Estadio da Luz, which was briefly stopped after Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr reported alleged abuse.
Prestianni, 20, denied racist abuse claims but was found guilty of making a homophobic comment, according to Uefa’s ruling. He has already served part of the suspension, with additional matches and suspended games included in the punishment.
Uefa has also requested that Fifa extend the ban worldwide.
The case follows wider concerns in football over discrimination, with officials and governing bodies pushing for stronger action against abusive behaviour on the pitch.
