Benfica endured a bruising day off the pitch after UEFA dismissed the club’s complaint against Fede Valverde, compounding the earlier setback of Gianluca Prestianni’s suspension ahead of the decisive Champions League return leg against Real Madrid.
The Portuguese side had formally lodged a complaint with UEFA alleging that Valverde punched Samuel Dahl during the first leg of the tie. The incident, which Benfica argued was supported by clear visual evidence, did not result in disciplinary action during the match. The club subsequently sought retrospective punishment, hoping the Uruguay international could face suspension that might extend beyond Wednesday’s showdown at the Santiago Bernabeu.
UEFA, however, opted not to pursue the case.
In an official statement, Benfica voiced their frustration at the governing body’s decision. “UEFA informed Benfica that the complaint filed by the club regarding the incident involving Real Madrid player Fede Valverde has been dismissed. Benfica regret that, despite clear visual evidence showing the aggression against Samuel Dahl, UEFA decided not to take any disciplinary action.”
The ruling came only hours after Benfica were informed that Prestianni would be suspended for the return leg in Madrid. His absence represents a significant blow to the squad as they prepare for one of the most demanding fixtures of their European campaign.
Benfica had linked their complaint over Valverde to the broader context surrounding the first leg, which included allegations of racism made by Vinicius Junior against Prestianni. In their submission to UEFA, the Lisbon club pointed to what they described as an unpunished act of violence against Dahl, arguing that consistency in disciplinary standards was essential at this level of competition.
With UEFA’s decision now final, Benfica head to Madrid facing mounting challenges. The combination of Prestianni’s suspension and the dismissal of their complaint against Valverde leaves the club feeling aggrieved at a pivotal stage of their Champions League campaign.
All eyes now turn to the return leg in the Spanish capital, where Benfica must regroup quickly and focus solely on the football, despite lingering frustration over the events surrounding the first encounter.
