"Assuming UEFA do not come to a quick decision, it will come down to Prestianni's will to play at the Santiago Bernabeu and whether coach Jose Mourinho deems it a sensible call. The noises in Portugal indicate Prestianni is keen and Mourinho is happy for the forward to take part. He missed the weekend win over AVS due to a domestic suspension but started the nine games before that."
"The 25-year-old started and scored in Madrid's 2-1 defeat at Osasuna at the weekend and produced a combative display. He may have been rested against Benfica had Madrid established a more decisive first-leg advantage but with the tie very much in the balance, he will be in the starting XI. Vinícius Jr is an emotional character and Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa will be hoping he can keep his feelings in check and focus on helping his side into the round of 16."
Real Madrid host Benfica with Gianluca Prestianni and Vinícius Jr central to attention because Prestianni faces accusations of racially abusing Vinícius after the first-leg play-off. Prestianni denies wrongdoing and told the Benfica squad he is remorseful for the controversy while asserting innocence. UEFA is investigating but a decision before the return leg appears unlikely. Prestianni's participation depends on his willingness and coach José Mourinho's judgement; he missed the weekend due to domestic suspension but had started the previous nine games. Vinícius started and scored in the weekend defeat and is expected to start, with coach Álvaro Arbeloa urging emotional control.
Read at 101GREATGOALS.COM
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]