UEFA has banned Gianluca Prestianni, a winger for SL Benfica, for six matches following a controversial incident during a UEFA Champions League clash against Real Madrid in February.
The governing body imposed the sanction for what it described as discriminatory conduct, specifically homophobic behaviour. It suspended three of the six matches for a two-year probation period.
UEFA confirmed that the 20-year-old had already served one match during the second leg of the play-off tie against Madrid.
Officials initially imposed a provisional ban after Vinícius Júnior accused Prestianni of racism during the first leg on 17 February, an allegation the Argentine denied.
During the altercation, Prestianni spoke to Vinícius while covering his mouth, prompting the Brazilian to alert the referee. The incident led to a 10-minute stoppage in play.
After the match, Aurélien Tchouaméni said Prestianni told him he had not used racist language but had instead directed a homophobic slur at Vinícius.
UEFA added that it has requested FIFA to extend the suspension worldwide.