Real Madrid will face Benfica in the second leg of their Champions League playoff tie at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, Spain on Wednesday at 9pm (20:00 GMT). Real Madrid holds a 1-0 lead over Benfica going into the match, with allegations of racism overshadowing the matchup. Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni has been suspended for the second leg after being accused of racially abusing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. Benfica coach Jose Mourinho, who is also suspended for the second leg, has faced criticism for his response to the incident. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois expressed disappointment in Mourinho’s comments. Arbeloa called on UEFA to take a strong stand against racism in light of the incident. This will be the sixth meeting between the two clubs, with Benfica winning three games and Real Madrid winning two. Real Madrid is the record winner of the Champions League.
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