Can Vinícius Júnior Be Brazil’s World Cup Catalyst After Struggles?

LILLE, FRANCE — NOVEMBER 18, 2025: Vinícius Júnior of Brazil controls the ball during the international friendly match between Brazil and Tunisia at Decathlon Arena. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)

Vinícius Júnior: The Big-Game Decisive Force for Real Madrid

Few footballers in the past five years have been as decisive in high-pressure matches as Vinícius Júnior. Since 2021, he has led all players in goal contributions during UEFA Champions League knockout stages. He has scored in two Champions League finals and consistently delivered clutch performances for Real Madrid.

However, his last two seasons have been challenging, particularly as he navigates playing alongside Kylian Mbappé, who joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2024.

Brazil’s Struggles: A Team in Search of Identity

For Brazil, Vinícius’s impact has not matched his club form. The national team’s struggles trace back to tactical instability under former head coach Dorival Júnior, whose fluid but disjointed system left the attack without structure. Unlike past Brazilian generations rich with creative interplay, this squad lacks cohesion, making it difficult for Vinícius to thrive.

Opponents have exploited Brazil’s weaknesses by isolating Vinícius, congesting his space with multiple defenders and stifling the attack. The absence of a creative midfield hub to control tempo and create chances has further compounded the problem. Additionally, Brazil’s full-backs have failed to provide adequate support, leaving Vinícius isolated on the wing.

Raphinha’s Rise and Ancelotti’s Influence

Raphinha’s emergence as a standout performer has been a bright spot for Brazil. Yet, the key to unlocking Vinícius’s best may lie with new coach Carlo Ancelotti, who previously inspired a Ballon d’Or-level version of the winger at Real Madrid.

Vinícius has played in just one World Cup, scoring a single goal in the 2022 tournament in Qatar. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the pressure on him will be immense. Brazil will rely heavily on his shoulders, while opponents will target his weaknesses to frustrate him.

World Cup 2026: Brazil’s Path to Redemption

Among the tournament’s stars, Vinícius faces one of the toughest challenges. Brazil’s issues—lack of a reliable striker, creative midfield void, and inconsistent full-backs—remain unresolved. If Vinícius can rediscover his form, Brazil may finally have the superstar capable of propelling them to the final.

Could a resurgence under Ancelotti in a cup competition be the spark Brazil needs? The answer may determine their fate in the 2026 World Cup.