Real Madrid launch investigation after fan filmed appearing to perform Nazi salute before Benfica match

Real Madrid has begun an investigation after ejecting a supporter filmed appearing to perform a Nazi salute inside the Bernabéu stadium before Wednesday’s match against Benfica .

The club has asked its disciplinary committee "to initiate an immediate expulsion procedure" for the offender, stating: "Real Madrid condemns this type of gesture and expression that incites violence and hatred in sports and society."

The incident comes a week after Vinicius Jr alleged racial abuse by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during the first leg in Lisbon.

Vinicius Jr was visibly upset on the pitch as he informed the referee of the alleged abuse, leading to a delay of around 10 minutes before play resumed.

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The fan incident occurred just a week after Vinicius Jr accused Gianluca Prestianni of racially abusing him (AFP/Getty)

Uefa is investigating the claim, and handed Prestianni a provisional ban ahead of Wednesday’s match.

Benfica’s appeal against the ban was rejected, meaning that Prestianni was unavailable for the second leg.

Real Madrid won 2-1 on Wednesday night to secure a 3-1 aggregate victory as they booked their place in the last 16 of the Champions League.

Benfica opened the scoring on the night through Rafa Silva in the 14th minute, but Real Madrid equalised just two minutes later thanks to Aurelien Tchouameni.

Vinicius Jr then raced clear to score the winning goal as Real Madrid came through the tricky tie.

Real Madrid now await Friday’s Champions League draw, knowing they will either have to face Manchester City or Sporting Lisbon in the next round.

The Spanish giants have already played City this season, and it did not end well for them as they suffered a 2-1 home defeat back in December.

The last-16 ties will be played across two legs. The first legs will take place on March 10/11, while the second legs will be held on March 17/18.

This year’s final is in Budapest on 30 May.