Ancelotti hails Vinicius as Brazil winger continues stellar World Cup form
By Joel Masibo, June 25, 2026Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has lauded Vinicius Junior after the forward delivered another outstanding display at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, scoring twice in the Seleção’s 3-0 triumph over Scotland on Thursday, June 25, 2026.
The 25-year-old attacker struck both of his goals before halftime, helping Brazil finish at the summit of Group C and secure a place in the World Cup knockout rounds.
Brazil made a dream start, taking the lead just seven minutes into the contest following a defensive lapse from Scotland. Centre-back Scott McKenna hesitated while attempting to clear the danger inside his own box, allowing Rayan to pounce and win possession. The forward then squared the ball to Vinicius, who made no mistake from close range.
Brazil extended their advantage moments before the interval. Bruno Guimaraes delivered a dangerous ball into the area, but Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn failed to deal with the cross after misjudging its flight. Vinicius capitalised on the error, nodding the ball into an unguarded goal to make it 2-0.
Having spent four successful campaigns working alongside Vinicius at Real Madrid, Ancelotti said he was never concerned about the winger’s ability to rise to the occasion at the global tournament.
Ancelotti hails Vinicius
“I had no doubts about how he would arrive at this World Cup,” Ancelotti said. “For him, representing Brazil is an honor. He is playing very well, and he even scored with a header, which doesn’t happen often.”
The veteran Italian tactician noted that the player’s impressive performances have not caught him by surprise.
“I know exactly what Vini is capable of. He is one of the best players in the world,” he said.
Vinicius has been among the standout performers of the tournament, having netted four times in Brazil’s opening three matches. He scored his first goal in the 1-1 draw against Morocco before adding another in the team’s 3-0 victory over Haiti.
His two-goal display against Scotland lifted him alongside France star Kylian Mbappe and Norway forward Erling Haaland in the race for the World Cup’s Golden Boot award. The trio currently sits one goal behind Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who leads the scoring charts.