BY OSABUOHIEN VIVIAN-ROSE
Benfica suspended five fans after an investigation found they had engaged in behaviour of a “racist nature” in the club’s home match with Real Madrid last week.
The Portuguese club said it had initiated disciplinary measures against the fans, which could lead to them being permanently banned.
A few Benfica fans were seen doing monkey gestures from the stands after the match at the Stadium of Light.
“Benfica informed that it has suspended the memberships of five members following the initiation of disciplinary proceedings that led to the application of the maximum sanction stipulated in club’s statutes, which is expulsion,” the club said in a statement.
“An internal investigation initiated after the match between Benfica and Real Madrid, held on February 17, and the adoption of inappropriate behavior in the stands, of a racist nature, incompatible with the values and principles that govern the club.
“Benfica reaffirms that it does not tolerate any form of discrimination or racism and will continue to act firmly when behaviors undermine the values of the club.”
The Champions League playoff first leg was halted for nearly 10 minutes after the referee installed the anti-racism protocol following an allegation from Madrid star Vinícius Júnior that he had been racially abused by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni.
The Argentine forward has denied the accusations and Benfica have defended the player, alleging that he was the victim of a “defamation campaign.”
Benfica head coach Jose Mourinho was criticised for suggesting that Vinícius’ celebration, dancing by the corner flag, had sparked a confrontation with Benfica players, including Prestianni.
Real Madrid won the first leg 1-0 before going onto complete a 3-1 aggregate win in the return match at the Bernabeu on Wednesday. Vinícius scored in both games.
Over 3,000 Benfica fans watching the match in Bernabeu had jeered nearly every time Vinícius touched the ball early in the game. The Benfica supporters also booed emphatically when the name of the Brazilian player was announced in the starting lineup ahead of the match.
