Vinicius Junior put on a dazzling display in the latest El Clasico against Barcelona at the Spotify Camp Nou.
The Brazilian winger was instrumental in Real Madrid’s 4-0 victory, securing their place in the 2023 Copa del Rey final. Although Karim Benzema stole the show with a memorable hat-trick, becoming the first Los Blancos player to achieve this feat at Barcelona’s home since Ferenc Puskas in 1963, Vinicius was equally impressive on the right and arguably the best player for Real Madrid.
Vinicius made a significant impact in the match by scoring Real Madrid’s first goal just before half-time and winning a penalty after the break, which was converted by Benzema to increase their lead to 3-0.
The Brazilian winger also played a key role in Benzema’s hat-trick goal by providing the assist, completing a magnificent individual performance.
These two moments were the highlights of the game, showcasing the impressive displays by both Vinicius and Benzema.
Vinicius vs Ronaldo Araujo
Before the Copa del Rey semi-final’s second leg, much attention was paid to the anticipated showdown between Vinicius and Araujo. In previous El Clasicos, the Barcelona defender had successfully neutralized Vinicius, but it was a different story this time.
Vinicius dominated the battle and gave Araujo a difficult time throughout the match.
A particular moment early in the second half perfectly exemplified Vinicius’ dominance. Near the corner flag, he executed a seemingly effortless skill move that left the Uruguayan defender completely bewildered.
Araujo was made to swipe at thin air and the snippet of skill has gone viral on social media…
Vinicius Junior sacándose a Ronald Araujo 🕺🏾 pic.twitter.com/JipN2FtlQa
— MadridTotal (@MadridTotal_) April 5, 2023
WHERE IS ARAUJO GOING I’M CRYING 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭pic.twitter.com/rIbz6OTMxx
— Noodle Vini (@vini_ball) April 5, 2023
Vinicius Jr is one of the best footballers in the world when it comes to dribbling, and his skills were on full display in the match. Later on, with Real Madrid comfortably leading 4-0, Vinicius and Araujo clashed again.
However, this time their interaction was not a beautiful display of skill.
Perhaps Araujo’s frustration had reached its limit, as he lost his temper and sent Vinicius tumbling to the ground.
The Barcelona defender was fortunate to escape a second yellow card for his actions.
Vinicius finally made Araujo snap
Araujo got angry because he couldn’t stop Vinicius😂 pic.twitter.com/y3w9Wo0IhT
— Mikael Madridista (@MikaelMadridsta) April 5, 2023
The gloves are off between Araujo and Vini jr! 🥊 pic.twitter.com/Nm0LvK2DRB
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 5, 2023
Vinicius Jr is not only a skilled footballer but also a proficient provocateur, and he manages to balance both roles remarkably well.
In his post-match interview, Araujo was unsurprisingly asked about Vinicius.
He responded, perBarca Times: “Vinicius needs to focus on playing football. He is a great player, but my head got a little hot tonight because he kept telling our players this and that throughout the match.”