The goal is back… and so is the top spot

Vinícius Júnior hadn’t found the net since April 16. Six goalless matches under Carlo Ancelotti, plus two more with Xabi Alonso at the helm. But in just eight minutes, the Brazilian regained his spark and played a key role in the win over Salzburg, which secured Real Madrid’s top spot in the group.

The best version of Vini—the one that had gone missing during a rocky season—reappeared in Philadelphia. Finally freed from the left wing, he roamed through the middle, attacked the open spaces, and once again looked dangerous near the box.

From wasting chances… to finishing with class

Before the goal, he had already missed Madrid’s two clearest chances: a poor finish from a cross by Gonzalo García, and a one-on-one that the opposing keeper saved with his feet after a pinpoint pass from Bellingham. It looked like another frustrating night… until minute 40 arrived.

With Madrid losing intensity and failing to win the ball high up the pitch, Vinícius took advantage of the first real space he saw. Los Blancos have been impressively clinical: three shots against Pachuca while down a man, three goals. Four shots against Salzburg, three goals. When he's on, he doesn’t miss.

A goal he desperately needed

This one was more than just a goal—it was a personal relief. In 2025, Vinícius had lost momentum. He started the year with a red card at Mestalla and had only managed seven goals in 33 games. A far cry from his form in October and November, when he scored 10 times in just eight matches.

But this time, he made it count. He broke into space, received another pass from Bellingham, cut inside on his left at full speed, and unleashed a perfect strike from outside the box—tucked right inside the post, leaving Zawieschitzky with no chance. A world-class goal.

And a magical assist

He didn’t stop there. With the game already leaning Madrid’s way, Vinícius added one last touch of brilliance: a clever ball control on the run, followed by an assist to Fede Valverde, who charged into the box to score the 2–0. The Brazilian rightfully earned Man of the Match honors.

“Vinícius and Gonzalo help us a lot by pressing high and keeping the team from dropping too deep,” said Fran García, highlighting the No. 7’s growing commitment on defense.

Xabi Alonso’s message is starting to sink in

Since taking over, Xabi Alonso has made it clear: his forwards must defend without the ball. It’s something Ancelotti never fully managed to instill—and one of the main issues of Madrid’s shaky season.

But under new leadership, Vinícius’s mindset and performance have been trending upward, just like Real Madrid’s overall play. In just 67 minutes, he created four chances, contributed to two goals, completed three dribbles… and, above all, looked like he was having fun again.