Vinicius’ thunderbolt stunned fans on social media.
Football fans were left wowed by Real Madrid attacker Vinicius Junior’s phenomenal opener in the side’s Champions League clash with Manchester City.
The Brazilian forward put his side 1-0 up in the 36th minute in sensational fashion. Eduardo Camavinga drove at the Cityzens’ defense before playing in Vinicius. He smashed a ferocious effort past City goalkeeper Ederson. The young winger was already celebrating before the ball hit the back of the net.
It was a vital opener for Carlo Ancelotti’s side as Manchester City were enjoying possession during the opening proceedings. Vinicius’ goal takes his tally for the season to 23 goals and 21 assists in 50 games across competitions.
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand had claimed that Vinicius was probably the best one on one attacker in world football before the game. He said:
“Vinicius is most probably the most devastating 1v1 player in the world.”
Vinicius has lived up to that mantra, giving the likes of Kyle Walker and Rodri a torrid time. He nicked the ball off the latter and nearly found Karim Benzema during the first half.
The Real Madrid forward’s opener has sent social media into hysteria. One fan reacted by claiming Vinicius to be better than Manchester City striker Erling Haaland:
“Vinicius is so clear of Haaland.”
Another fan lauded the Brazilian:
“He’s too good man.”
Here’s how Twitter reacted to Vinicius’ wonder strike in Real Madrid’s first-leg encounter with City:
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola explained choosing Kyle Walker to nullify Real Madrid’s Vinicius’ threat
Manchester City headed into tonight’s semifinal first-leg clash with Real Madrid knowing they needed to deal with Vinicius. The Brazilian has been on fire this season with his speed causing defenders problems all season.
City boss Pep Guardiola admitted he selected Kyle Walker at right-back to deal with Vinicius’ electric pace. He said (via Manchester Evening News):
“Definitely. But not just for that, he has to play as well, but of course in that level in the latter stages every team has a threat. We have a threat as well, hopefully we can use him more than them.”
Walker is a pacey full-back, who has been able to show his versatility and filled in at central defense. However, Vinicius has been a nightmare in the first half at the Bernabeu. He has completed two successful dribbles and won four of seven ground duels. Meanwhile, Walker has lost possession 12 times but has made four tackles.
