Vinicius Jr Shines Bright as Real Madrid Cruise Past Salzburg in Club World Cup
It was a night to remember in Philadelphia, where Vinicius Jr reminded the world — and perhaps even himself — just how special he can be. Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Red Bull Salzburg in the FIFA Club World Cup group stage wasn’t just another win. It was a statement. A statement from the Brazilian forward who’s endured months of criticism, pressure, and uncertainty. But in the rain-soaked atmosphere of Lincoln Financial Field, Vinicius wasn’t just smiling — he was dancing, dazzling, and delivering.
After a turbulent period where even the Bernabéu crowd turned on him, and questions about his future swirled endlessly in the press, this was the kind of performance that silences doubters. With a goal and a stunning assist in the first half alone, he was named man of the match. But beyond the stats, it was the energy, the movement, and the commitment — even defensively — that stood out. Head coach Xabi Alonso made a point of that, highlighting not just Vinicius' technical brilliance but his willingness to work for the team.
The shift to a more central role seems to be unlocking a new version of the Brazilian. He acknowledged it himself, recalling how playing slightly inside under Ancelotti helped him explode during Madrid’s previous Champions League triumph. And here, in the U.S., we saw flashes of that magic again — especially when he coolly finished off a pinpoint Jude Bellingham assist, reigniting memories of their 2023-24 double-winning season.
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His assist for Valverde's goal was the cherry on top — a backheel flick so clever, so precise, it drew comparisons to Guti's legendary 'heel of God' moment. Even Vinicius seemed in awe afterward, admitting he hadn’t yet watched the replay but already calling it one of his most beautiful passes.
There was also symbolism in the way he celebrated his goal — kissing the badge and embracing Alonso. Despite removing Madrid-related content from his Instagram in recent weeks, he changed his profile picture this week to show himself holding the Madrid shirt. A subtle message, maybe. Or maybe just the smile of a player who feels at home again.
Salzburg, to their credit, didn’t fold. They tested Courtois, had chances, and pushed until the end. But Madrid’s class, led by a revitalized Vinicius Jr, proved too much.
Now, Juventus await in the next round — and with Vinicius playing like this, Real Madrid have every reason to believe they can go all the way.
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