The UEFA logo is seen during the draw for the semi-finals round of the UEFA Champions League football tournament at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon on April 13, 2018. (Photo by Fabrice COFFRINI / AFP) (Photo by FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP via Getty Images)

Europe’s football governing body, UEFA, has stated that it has commenced investigations into the chaotic incidents that took place in Real Madrid’s game against Benfica in Portugal in the UEFA Champions League.

The first leg of the playoff tie had Real Madrid score a 1-0 win over Benfica with Vinicius Jr scoring the winning goal.

However, the game was marred by an alleged racist incident that prompted a 10 minute stoppage before play continued.

Vinicius Jr reported that Benfica’s Argentine winger Gianluca Prestianni racially abused him with Real Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappe confirming this.(Click highlighted text to read full story)

In a statement released on Wednesday, February 18, UEFA detailed that proceedings on the incident have been opened.

Gianluca Prestianni of Benfica speaks towards Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off First Leg match between SL Benfica and Real Madrid C.F. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“The official reports from the matches played last night are currently being reviewed. Where matters are reported, proceedings are opened and should they lead to disciplined sanctions being imposed, they are announced on the UEFA disciplinary website.”

Vinícius Júnior of Real Madrid CF and Gianluca Prestianni of SL Benfica argue during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off First Leg match between SL Benfica and Real Madrid C.F (Photo by Valter Gouveia/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images)

“We have no further information to provide you or any further comment to make on this matter at this stage” the statement officially read.

Gianluca Prestianni of SL Benfica reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off First Leg match between SL Benfica and Real Madrid C.F (Photo by Joao Bravo/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images)