World Cup: Vinícius Júnior denies shirking penalty responsibility in Brazil's loss to Norway

Vinícius Júnior has addressed criticism regarding his decision not to take a penalty kick during Brazil's World Cup elimination match against Norway. The star forward asserted that he did not avoid responsibility, emphasizing that the penalty-taking order was determined by the coaching staff.

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Many might say I didn't want to, but I absolutely did not shirk responsibility.

Brazil was awarded a penalty in the first half after a foul in the box. Bruno Guimarães stepped up to take the spot-kick, but his shot was saved by Norwegian goalkeeper Orjan Nyland. This missed opportunity became a focal point of post-match discussion, with many believing Vinícius Júnior, as a key attacking player, should have taken the shot.

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The coach decided before the game who it was, he chose Guimarães, and I never look at personal honors, nor do I seek to be the top scorer in the competition, that's why he took it, his penalty kick is better than mine, so the coach chose him.

"Many might say I didn't want to, but I absolutely did not shirk responsibility," Vinícius Júnior stated. He explained that coach Carlo Ancelotti had decided on the penalty takers before the game, and Guimarães was chosen because his technique was considered superior at that moment. Vinícius Júnior added that he never prioritizes personal accolades and is always ready to fulfill the coach's instructions, citing his experience at Real Madrid where he takes penalties when selected.

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In Real Madrid, if the coach chooses me, I'll do it, and that's how it is, we have to prepare ourselves better for the next World Cup and the next games.

Coach Ancelotti corroborated this, explaining the penalty order was based on statistical data. He listed the preferred takers as Neymar, Igor Thiago, Raphinha, Guimarães, and Gabriel Martinelli, ultimately selecting Guimarães as the most suitable option on the field at that time. Brazil's elimination from the World Cup has led to extensive reviews of the team's performance and decisions made during the crucial match.

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Among the available players, the most suitable to take the penalty kick in order were Neymar, Igor Thiago, Raphinha, Guimarães, and Martinelli, and Guimarães was chosen because he was the most suitable person on the field at the time.