In the upcoming match at Santiago Bernabéu, Benfica holds out hope to have Gianluca Prestianni available to play despite the UEFA's provisional suspension due to alleged racist comments made towards Vinicius Junior during a previous match. The Portuguese club has filed an appeal to have the suspension lifted before the day's game and expects a ruling from UEFA's appeals commission shortly before kickoff.

The context of this situation stems from accusations directed at Prestianni following a match in which the Portuguese side faced Real Madrid in Lisbon. UEFA's decision to suspend the young Argentine was based on claims that he violated regulatory standards against racist behavior. As the match time approaches, Benfica is banking on a favorable decision that would allow the player to participate in this critical matchup against one of Europe's top clubs.

In contrast, Real Madrid faces its own challenges as they prepare for the game without star player Kylian Mbappé, who is sidelined due to an injury. This adds an additional layer of complexity to the match dynamics, as both teams navigate significant personnel changes ahead of their high-stakes encounter at one of football's most iconic venues. The outcome of these developments will not only affect the match but also resonate within the larger narrative of player conduct and disciplinary measures in European football.