UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) has fined Benfica 40,000 euros ($46,000) for racist abuse by fans during a Champions League match against Real Madrid. The fine was imposed for "illicit chants and gestures by two supporters" at the February 17 game in Lisbon, UEFA announced on Wednesday.

The Portuguese club must serve a one-year probation period to avoid closing part of Lisbon's Estadio da Luz (Stadium of Light) at a future European competition match. Benfica had previously suspended five fans who were under investigation for "inappropriate behaviour in the stands of a racist nature."

Television images showed some fans making monkey gestures after Madrid's 1-0 win in the first leg of the Champions League knockout playoffs. The game was stopped for nearly 10 minutes when Vinícius told the referee that Prestianni called him "monkey" after he scored and celebrated in front of Benfica fans.

Prestianni, who denied the allegation, pulled up his jersey to cover his mouth when the alleged insult was said. The Argentina winger was suspended by UEFA from the second leg in Madrid while under investigation and faces a potential 10-game ban from UEFA competition matches.

UEFA's investigation into Prestianni is ongoing, while the verdict on a separate charge against Benfica for fan misconduct was published on Wednesday. This incident highlights the persistent issue of racism in European football.

Source: www.aljazeera.com