Royal Privilege: UEFA’s Double Standards — Real Madrid Captain’s Punch Goes Unpunished While Benfica’s Players Face Suspensions

There is no question that Real Madrid is the club with the most Champions League trophies and the greatest beneficiary of the tournament. Now, Real Madrid is once more receiving special treatment in the Champions League, with UEFA’s clear double standards in enforcement facing serious scrutiny.

UEFA has rejected Benfica’s complaint about Valverde’s violent behavior. UEFA’s stance is that “what happens on the pitch stays on the pitch,” meaning Real Madrid captain Valverde, who punched a Benfica player during the first leg of the Champions League playoff, will not face any punishment or suspension and is eligible for the second leg. Benfica expressed dissatisfaction and disappointment with UEFA’s decision, as the evidence of Valverde’s punch was undeniable.

While everyone witnessed Real Madrid captain Valverde’s punch go unpunished, Benfica’s player Prestiani, whose case remains unresolved, was provisionally suspended by UEFA for one match and will miss the second leg of the Champions League playoff against Real Madrid. Spanish media outlet AS revealed that UEFA rarely uses the term “preliminary assessment,” implying that without a final decision, Benfica already suffers a loss. Clear evidence goes unpunished, while unresolved cases lead to suspensions — royal privilege strikes again in the Champions League. UEFA’s double standards are becoming increasingly blatant, reaching an almost shameless level.

Additionally, Benfica’s head coach Mourinho received a two-yellow-card dismissal for dissent in the first leg and was sent to the stands. He will not give any interviews before the second leg against Real Madrid. Real Madrid’s royal privilege in the Champions League acts as a “golden ticket” to advance. Benfica has already lost both their key player and coach before the second leg even begins. Coupled with the Heisen incident, is Real Madrid still your dream team?