 |
Vini contributed 1 goal in Real Madrid's 3-0 win over Salzburg. |
It’s been a long time since Vinicius Jr. has exploded like he used to – no more lightning-fast sprints, no more plays that can tear an opposing defense apart in an instant. But in Philadelphia, in the game that would put Real Madrid on top of their group at the FIFA Club World Cup, Vinicius was back.
And the Brazilian star returned in the most impressive way: decisive, classy, and carrying the image of a true leader on the attack.
Xabi Alonso, in an experimental move, used three centre-backs for the first time since taking charge of the Spanish Royal team against Salzburg. A bold choice - and no one dares to say whether it is the long-term direction.
But one thing is for sure: in any formation, Real Madrid still need Vinicius at his best. And this match proved that he is on his way back to his most dangerous version.
The opening goal was a moment that reflected Vinicius’ instincts and technique. After a clever pass from Bellingham – who was also excellent – Vini took a delicate touch, turned to the left and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot. No defender could close in. No goalkeeper could stop it. It was quick, cool and deadly.
 |
Vini is back. |
But perhaps the most memorable moment came from the second assist. A surprising but calculated backheel, as if Vinicius had seen the whole game in front of him. Valverde, always a clever mover, got on at the right moment, controlled the ball for a moment and finished into the far corner. It was a team goal, but it was born from the Brazilian's genius intuition.
After the match, Vinicius humbly told DAZN : "I haven't watched it again, but it's probably one of the best assists I've ever made. Especially when it was Valverde - someone who always believed in me and supported me a lot."
The Brazilian star spoke with the calmness of someone who knows his worth, but is also maturing to become a leader not only with goals, but also with his footballing mindset.
In the same interview, Vini admitted that the team played better in the first half, then lost steam in the second - which is completely normal in a game of good control. He praised coach Xabi Alonso, who is gradually instilling a new football philosophy in the squad. And yes - the backheel assist was not just a moment of improvisation, but a product of confidence, a license to take risks, and a system that is developing in the right direction.
 |
Real Madrid need Vini at his best for the remainder of the FIFA Club World Cup. |
With this victory, Real Madrid not only secured the top spot in Group H of the FIFA Club World Cup, but also regained an important foothold. Vinicius is hot, Bellingham is still stable, and Xabi Alonso is gradually testing new moves on the field.
The real tests, however, are just beginning. Juventus await in the knockout stages, and they will be the opponents who will test whether Alonso's three-man centre-back system is solid enough, and whether his aggressive, high-pressing style of play can be used to its full potential under pressure.
As for Vinicius, he has nothing more to prove. His performance in Philadelphia was not just an individual performance, but a message to the rest of the league: the Brazilian is back – faster, sharper and more dangerous than ever. And with Vinicius back, Real Madrid suddenly have a very real chance of winning the title.
Source: https://znews.vn/vinicius-tro-lai-dung-luc-va-day-ban-linh-post1564152.html
Comment (0)