A player with a pained expression talks to a man in a suit while a large red cross appears in the image, suggesting a possible injury during a match.
Vinicius at the moment of his substitution, with Ancelotti facing away and a red cross | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
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Vinicius, K.O. in Brazil - Paraguay, doesn't finish the match and is injured

He leaves before the match ends, and the alarm ring due to his physical condition

by

Borja Díaz

With less than a week left before the Club World Cup begins, some players are still playing matches. That was the case for Vinicius, who had to play the important Brazil vs. Paraguay match. The Canarinha secured the victory thanks to a goal from the Madrid forward, sealing qualification for the World Cup.

It was a match where victory was vitally important to secure their spot at the 2026 tournament. However, Vinicius Jr. may pay a heavy price in the form of an injury. He had to leave the field before the final whistle, which set off the alarm.

Brazilian player celebrating a goal during a match in a stadium full of fans
Vinicius celebrating his goal against Paraguay | Real Madrid Confidencial

It was after a challenge from an opponent that Ancelotti decided to substitute him to avoid further risks. No one knows what the injury is yet, and he will undergo tests in the coming hours. Although it seems he doesn't have anything serious, he could join Xabi Alonso's training sessions.

With a week left before Real Madrid make their Club World Cup debut, the alarm are ringing. At this stage of the season, an injury could rule him out of the tournament in the United States. It could even affect preseason depending on the length of his absence and recovery.

Vinicius is in great form for the World Cup

The truth is that if his injury isn't serious, Vinicius will arrive at the World Cup in great form. Xabi Alonso will have a footballer who showed his high level against Paraguay to face the tournament. With speed, unpredictability, and confidence to secure his team's victory.

A player in a white uniform advances with the ball while being chased by two players in gold uniforms in a stadium full of spectators.
Vinicius dribbling past a Real Sociedad player | Real Madrid Confidencial

Not so much for the goal, in which he anticipated well to take advantage of a pass from Cunha, but for the overall impression. He became Brazil's leader, carrying the team on his back in the toughest moments. He made the decision to go for a match they couldn't let slip away.

Additionally, it was Ancelotti's debut as national team coach at home and the win would help calm things down. Vinicius knew this, so he acted as Brazil's leader, with determination and quality football. This is the version Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid need this summer.

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