Vinicius Junior scored in all three of Brazil's group matches at the 2026 World Cup, joining an elite list of Brazilian players including Pelé, Ronaldo, Romário, Rivaldo, and Garrincha who have achieved the same feat. The Real Madrid star was named player of the match in all three group games, scoring twice against Scotland and once against Haiti, with an additional goal against Morocco that showcased his trademark brilliance.
Vinicius Junior's Journey to International Stardom
Vinicius won his first cap in a 1-0 friendly defeat by Peru in 2019 and was mostly on the bench when Brazil hosted the Copa América in 2021. He did not score his first international goal until his 19th appearance, a 4-0 thrashing of Chile in a World Cup qualifier in 2022. By the time the World Cup kicked off in Qatar later that year, he had added clinical finishing to his speed, but his impact at the tournament was below par with one goal and two assists as Brazil were beaten by Croatia on penalties in the quarter-finals.
Stepping Up After Neymar's Injury
When Neymar was injured in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023, the weight of a demanding nation fell on Vinicius's shoulders. He went into the Copa América in 2024 having scored in another victorious Champions League final, but failed to hit the same heights, suspended as Brazil lost to Uruguay on penalties. Now, at the 2026 World Cup, Vinicius has finally delivered, scoring four goals in his last three international appearances after having nine goals in 49 caps before the tournament.
Ancelotti's Influence
Vinicius's success is partly attributed to manager Carlo Ancelotti, who previously coached him at Real Madrid. Ancelotti has employed a mix of strictness, fun, and protection, making bets with players to encourage improvement. He bet Vinicius to score more headers, and the forward is now pressing effectively, yielding goals. Vinicius said of Ancelotti: "He is one of the best coaches in the world. He understands players very well and adapts to them."
Raphinha's Struggles
While Vinicius thrives, Raphinha has faced criticism. He claimed Brazil would "thrash Argentina, on and off the pitch" in a World Cup qualifier last year, but they lost 4-1. He also said he had nothing to prove to people in Brazil, which drew ridicule. Raphinha picked up a hamstring injury in Brazil's opener and has been replaced by Rayan, who impressed against Scotland and is expected to keep his place for the last-32 match against Japan. Raphinha may return for the quarter-finals, but his place is uncertain.
Vinicius's Impact and Future
Walter Casagrande, former Brazil player and pundit, says Vinicius is "eating from the same table as Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé," competing for the tournament's Golden Boot and Golden Ball. Sports writer Paulo Vinicius Coelho calls him Brazil's "hero of the resistance" and questions why fans still chant Neymar's name. Vinicius, now 25, has nine goals in 49 caps before the tournament; now he has four in his last three. He said six years ago: "I hope I can make every Brazilian cheer for me one day." With each big performance, he gets closer.
