Brazil look to Vinicius Jr for World Cup inspiration

Vinicius Jr promised that he would do it "10x" if he had to after missing out on the 2024 Ballon d'Or, despite an excellent season that yielded a league and Champions League double with Real Madrid. What curtailed his claim was his national-team form: a suspension for yellow-card accumulation at the 2024 Copa America kept him out of the quarter-final against Uruguay, which Brazil lost on penalties, and he took responsibility for the elimination.

His club story has been one of steady improvement, but that shift has not translated for the Selecao. In 49 appearances Vinicius has scored nine times, six of those in friendlies, with two of the other goals coming against Paraguay in the Copa America group phase.

He has provided nine assists overall, but only two in tournament play. When the lights come on in Brazil’s yellow shirt, opponents frequently double-team him and target him physically, leaving him little space and a lack of clinical edge. Brazil no longer boast the same depth of household superstars.

Brazil

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