Champions League: UEFA under scrutiny ahead of Real Madrid vs Benfica

Next Wednesday, Benfica will travel to the Bernabéu for the Champions League play-off second leg. But before that, all eyes are on UEFA as the footballing world awaits its verdict on the racism controversy involving Vinicius Jr.

During Real Madrid's 1-0 victory over Benfica last Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League play-off, Vinicius Jr accused Gianluca Prestianni of racism. Although UEFA swiftly launched an investigation, a decision does not appear imminent, and the Argentine is unlikely to be suspended for the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday.

According to radio station Cadena SER, UEFA has been "on alert" for several hours. The governing body fears that the two players might refuse to shake hands during the pre-match protocol. UEFA is determined to avoid such a scene, which could further tarnish the image of Europe's most prestigious competition.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.