Vinicius Jr: Ballon d’Or Runner up Scores Beautiful Panenka Penalty, Video
- Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior notched a sensational Panenka penalty in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night
- The 24-year-old expertly converted from the spot to take his tally in Europe's premier club competition to four goals
- It was Vinicius Junior's first game since he was controversially snubbed for the 2024 Ballon d'Or Award
Vinicius Junior made an impressive scoring return for Real Madrid just days after being unexpectedly passed over for the 2024 Ballon d'Or.
Widely seen as a strong contender for the prestigious award, the Brazilian winger was blindsided by the outcome, ultimately opting to skip the ceremony where Manchester City's Rodri was crowned the world’s best.
Source: UGC
Madrid's next scheduled game against Valencia was postponed due to severe flash floods, but the team soon took to the field in the UEFA Champions League against AC Milan, a seven-time European champion.
Real Madrid pushed forward throughout the match, creating several opportunities, many of which were directed toward Kylian Mbappe.
PAY ATTENTION: Briefly News is now on YouTube! Check out our interviews on Briefly TV Life now!
However, when Emerson Royal committed a foul in the box, Vinicius would no doubt step up for the penalty.
Vinicius scores beautiful Panenka penalty
According to Football Espana, brimming with confidence, the 24-year-old winger faced AC Milan's goalkeeper Mike Maignan and executed a perfect Panenka, calmly drawing Real Madrid level after Milan’s Malick Thiaw had earlier powered in a header to open the scoring.
The equaliser showed Vinicius’ technical prowess and composure under pressure, yet Madrid’s joy was short-lived. AC Milan quickly reclaimed the lead as Alvaro Morata found the back of the net, restoring the Rossoneri’s advantage, per Bolavip.
Despite the setback, Vinicius' return to the scoresheet underscored his relentless drive and value to Madrid’s European campaign.
Why Vinicius lost Ballon d'Or to Rodri
Meanwhile, Briefly News reported that France Football’s chief editor had shed light on what might have hindered Vinicius' chances at winning the Ballon d'Or, ultimately awarded to Rodri.
Despite being a top contender due to his significant impact on Real Madrid last season, the Brazilian winger narrowly missed the prestigious accolade.
PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU - click on “Recommended for you” and enjoy!
Source: YEN.com.gh
