Vinicius continues to shine, Ancelotti praises him as among the world's best

Brazil's World Cup campaign saw Vinícius Junior continue his impressive form, netting two goals in their 3-0 triumph over Scotland. The victory confirmed Brazil's status as Group C winners, advancing them to the next round. Vinícius Junior was instrumental, scoring in the first half, including a rare header from the 25-year-old.

Head coach Carlo Ancelotti lauded the forward's capabilities, stating, "I already knew what Vinicius could do. Playing for Brazil is a great honor for him and he always gives his best. He played very well and scored with a header, something we rarely see from him. In my opinion, he is among the best players in the world right now."

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I already knew what Vinicius could do. Playing for Brazil is a great honor for him and he always gives his best. He played very well and scored with a header, something we rarely see from him. In my opinion, he is among the best players in the world right now.

Vinícius Junior has now scored four goals in three matches, putting him in contention for the Golden Boot alongside Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, and one goal behind Lionel Messi. He has also made history, becoming the first Brazilian player to score in all three World Cup group-stage matches since Ronaldo and Rivaldo in 2002, joining the ranks of Brazilian legends like Jairzinho and Romário.

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I don't think too much about the number of goals. I'm not a player who usually scores a lot, but the coach has put me in the right position and I'm getting more comfortable. What's important is helping the team and ensuring we keep advancing in this tournament.

"I don't think too much about the number of goals. I'm not a player who usually scores a lot, but the coach has put me in the right position and I'm getting more comfortable. What's important is helping the team and ensuring we keep advancing in this tournament," said Vinícius Junior.

The match also marked the return of Neymar, who played his first game for Brazil since October 2023. Ancelotti praised Neymar's commitment to regaining fitness after a lengthy recovery. "He worked hard to get back to his best. Neymar has the experience and quality that can help the team throughout this tournament. Even at 34, his passion for football is the same as when he first started in the sport," Ancelotti remarked. Brazil is set to face the runner-up of Group F in the round of 32.

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He worked hard to get back to his best. Neymar has the experience and quality that can help the team throughout this tournament. Even at 34, his passion for football is the same as when he first started in the sport.