vinicius junior real madrid.
Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged Vinícius Júnior’s “extraordinary character” and “energy” following the Ballon d’Or contender hat-trick in the second half of Real Madrid’s 5-2 Champions League comeback victory over Borussia Dortmund.
After goals from Donyell Malen and Jamie Gittens for the visitors, Madrid was behind 0–2 at the break at the Bernabéu.
However, goals from Antonio Rüdiger, Vinícius, and Lucas Vázquez put the European champions ahead. In order to complete his hat-trick and give Madrid a boost ahead of Saturday’s Clásico matchup with Barcelona, Brazil international Vinicius added two more goals.
“It’s unusual for a player to have a second half like he did,” Ancelotti said in his post-match news conference. “He played with energy and intensity, with extraordinary character.”
Vinicius’ hat-trick struck less than a week before the 2024 men’s Ballon d’Or winner is announced at a ceremony in Paris.
“I think Vinicius will win it, but not because of what he did tonight,” Ancelotti said. “It will be because of what he did last season. The three goals tonight will help him win the next Ballon d’Or!”
The first half’s attitude was condemned by Ancelotti, but he claimed that his players had produced “our best second half this season.”
Due to a muscular injury, Real Madrid striker Rodrygo left the game in the 85th minute and is unlikely to play against Barcelona on Saturday.
Also Read: Former Real Madrid & Manchester United Defender Hangs His Boots
