In a press conference before the important match against Uruguay, Dorival, the coach of Brazil, made a big announcement about Vinícius Júnior. After his last match against Venezuela last weekend, the Madrid forward received some bad news.
Having come close to winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or a few weeks ago, Vinícius Júnior received unwavering support from his entire country. Considered the star who should lead the Seleção during Neymar’s absence, who is constantly plagued by injuries, the Real Madrid star has high expectations. Even though he does not have the desired performance with Brazil (36 matches, 5 goals), the 24-year-old winger has always had certain privileges in the national team. Despite the presence of other brilliant players with their clubs, Vini has, for some time, been the one privileged to take penalties.
Dorival sidelines Vinícius Júnior
On 14 November, during Brazil’s trip to Venezuela, the Madrid star, who once again clashed with several opposing players and even the linesman, won a penalty. With the score tied (1-1) in this 2026 World Cup qualifier, Vinícius Júnior took on the responsibility of giving his team the lead in the 62nd minute. Unfortunately, things did not go well as he missed twice.
Usually proficient in this exercise, which he shares with Kylian Mbappé at Real Madrid, the star missed an important opportunity to improve his statistics with the national team. As if this miss did not sit well with many in Brazil, Dorival announced the change last night. In a press conference before the clash against Uruguay’s Celeste led by Federico Valverde, the Brazilian coach clearly stated that Vinícius Júnior would no longer take penalties. “If there is a penalty this Tuesday, it will be Raphinha who takes it,” said the Seleção boss.
While it is unclear if this decision will remain unchanged in future national team matches, particularly in March 2025 when the international break returns, it is a significant setback for Vinícius Júnior. Unlike at Real Madrid, where he is protected and cherished by Carlo Ancelotti, the 24-year-old player is held accountable in Brazil. In any case, he will need to do things correctly to regain the confidence of Brazilians and especially take the reins of the national team.
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