Real Madrid forward rolls back the years with stunning performance in Super Cup final

Real Madrid may have fallen short against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, but the match also offered a number of positives, none more significant than the performance of Vinicius Jr. 

In a game defined by fine margins, the Brazilian forward stood out as Real Madrid’s most dangerous attacking outlet and a constant source of threat.

For Vinicius, this match marked a turning point after several difficult months in which confidence had been questioned. 

From the opening minutes, he was central to Madrid’s attacking play, repeatedly receiving the ball in advanced areas and taking responsibility when the team needed initiative. 

The brightest spark

That persistence was eventually rewarded. Vinicius scored to end a long and frustrating goal drought that had stretched to 19 consecutive matches without finding the net. 

It was a run that had dragged his numbers down to their lowest level in five years, averaging one goal every 360 minutes. 

The goal in the final did not change the outcome of the match, but it carried clear personal significance.

Vinicius Jr. was the best Real Madrid player. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Statistically, Vinicius was the standout attacker on the pitch. He registered the most shots in the match with five attempts, four of which were on target. 

He also completed more dribbles than any other player, beating his marker on four occasions. 

Throughout the game, he targeted his direct opponent, Jules Kounde, forcing him into constant defensive adjustments. 

A big match player

Big matches have often brought the best out of Vinicius, and this final was no exception. 

He now has nine goals in 15 finals for Real Madrid. With that record, he is level with club legends Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Ferenc Puskas for total goal contributions in finals, all standing on 16. 

Vinicius’ night ended in the 82nd minute when he was replaced by Franco Mastantuono. The change was not tactical. 

After an exhausting display, the Brazilian asked to be substituted due to cramps and physical fatigue, and there is nothing serious about it.

Source: Sports Yahoo