Vinicius Junior hits the foot and puts his name in the history of the Champions League

Vinicius Junior has often heard the same criticism since he joined Real Madrid in mid-2018, still an 18-year-old. Finishing was probably the part of his game that needed tweaking the most.

The problem was one of the reasons that made coach Zinédine Zidade pass over the Brazilian, who he used as a reserve. It was Carlo Ancelotti, Zidane’s replacement, who bet on the Brazilian, scorer of the 2021/22 Champions League title.

From the arrival of the Italian, at the beginning of the season, the striker, now 21 years old, gained space. He evolved in the conclusions and, although the degree of difficulty was not high, with goalkeeper Alisson practically beaten in the play, he hit the most important shot of his young football career, defining the 1-0 triumph over Liverpool in the final.

“I am the happiest person in the world. After such a long season, with such special and important games, the most beautiful thing has arrived. I still have no idea what I’m experiencing, the goal I scored for the biggest club in the world, in competition in the world”, stated Vinicius.

Praised by Ancelotti and called by teammate Benzema as one of the best players in the world, the Brazilian says he is just getting started. According to him, there is a lot to grow — in submissions and in other aspects — and to conquer in the sport.

“I don’t want to stop here. I want to continue working hard, as I’ve worked so far, to win as many Champions Leagues as some of the players who are here,” said the young Fluminense, who recalled his origins while embracing the European Cup.

“I fought a lot. I left São Gonçalo. When I arrived here, when I was 18, Casemiro, Marcelo, these guys helped me a lot. I want to thank them too,” he said.