sports

Benfica files complaint over Valverde's alleged violent conduct

Benfica has filed a formal complaint with UEFA against Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde for alleged violent conduct during the first leg of the Champions League Round of 32.

Benfica’s complaint cites Valverde swinging his arm towards Samuel Dahl’s head in the 80th minute, an incident that did not trigger VAR intervention. UEFA is investigating the case, but a suspension is unlikely.

Benfica and Real Madrid will meet again next Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabéu, with both teams likely to field Valverde, Dahl, Vinicius and Prestianni, making the return leg potentially heated. Los Blancos hold a 1‑0 aggregate advantage.