Real Madrid’s Aurélien Tchouaméni comments on Prestianni’s suspension: ‘A win for everyone’
Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni expressed that it was a “victory for all of us” that Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni did not participate in Wednesday’s Champions League match at the Bernabéu stadium.
Prestianni received a provisional one-match suspension from UEFA following accusations of racially abusing Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior in the first leg of the tie last week.
The Argentinian, who has refuted these claims, traveled to Madrid but did not take the field as UEFA denied Benfica’s last-minute appeal against the provisional suspension.
“It was the best decision for this individual [Prestianni] not to play in this match,” Tchouaméni, who was born in France and has Cameroonian heritage, stated after Madrid’s 2-1 victory on Wednesday when questioned about Prestianni’s absence.
“There are more significant matters than football. Today was a triumph for all of us.”
Madrid supporters showcased a banner opposing racism prior to the kickoff on Wednesday. Tchouaméni commended Vinícius, who netted Madrid’s winning goal on Wednesday and celebrated by dancing near the corner flag, similar to his celebration after scoring the sole goal in the first leg in Lisbon.
“Vinicius has maintained his confidence,” Tchouaméni remarked.
“He was very focused. He delivered an outstanding performance, as he has done many times before, and I am very pleased for him.”
Despite Vinícius’ impressive display, it was Tchouaméni who earned the player of the match accolade for the second consecutive game in the Champions League.
The France international scored Madrid’s equalizer on Wednesday, marking his first goal of the season, which aided his team in advancing to the round of 16.
“I’m performing well,” he stated. “I’ve aimed to execute what I know. I’m very pleased with the goal; it’s an area I need to enhance. I have a lot of confidence. I strive to give my best in every match, and we must continue this momentum.”
