MIAMI GARDENS,Fla. — Vinícius Júnior delivered big for Brazil with two goals in their 3-0 win over Scotland Wednesday night, bringing his World Cup tally to four. Just one behind Lionel Messi,who leads with five. Vinícius,often doubted for not matching club form with Brazil,has quieted critics .
“Faith that I was going to improve, for the talent that I have … I was sure that at the right moment I would shine again with the Brazilian team shirt,” Vinícius said,looking back on his path. His goals against Scotland not only showed skill but also put him in the Golden Boot race,tied with Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland.
Vinícius now fifth Brazilian to score in all three group matches, last done by Ronaldo and Rivaldo in 2002. “There were always times when I couldn’t show my football,” he admitted. “It brings a certain relief.” His rise notable,especially with Carlo Ancelotti coaching him at Real Madrid from 2021 to 2025 .
Under Ancelotti,Vinícius became global star,helping win two Champions Leagues, two La Ligas, one Copa del Rey. Unlike before,when he had six goals in 39 games under other coaches, he’s netted seven in just 13 for Brazil since Ancelotti took over.
“I had no question in my mind of how far or well he’d come to this World Cup,” Ancelotti said. “It makes him happy to play for national team. He’s doing a brilliant job.” Vinícius acknowledged his coach’s impact, joking after scoring against Haiti that he should heed Ancelotti more.
“For sure when we get to dressing room,he’ll say he knows lot about football,” Vinícius quipped. Yet,he’s confident in himself and aims to keep improving. “I will also evolve and improve in the competition,” he vowed, hopeful for what's ahead. “And the hope only increases between us,between our fans and between our family…”
