Vinicius’s Sideline Meltdown Overshadows Real Madrid’s El Clasico Victory
Real Madrid secured a crucial El Clasico victory at the Bernabeu, but the most discontented figure on the pitch wasn’t from Barcelona – it was Vinicius Junior.
The Substitution That Sparked the Fury
When manager Xabi Alonso made the decision to substitute Vinicius in the 72nd minute, the Brazilian superstar simply couldn’t believe it. “Not me?” his expression seemed to say as he walked past Alonso on the touchline.
His eyes didn’t deceive him – the substitution board confirmed his number was indeed coming off. What followed was a display of pure frustration that would dominate post-match discussions.
A Display of Raw Emotion
Vinicius waved his arms wildly throughout his walk to the bench, visibly struggling to comprehend why he was being withdrawn from such a crucial match. The disbelief quickly transformed into mounting anger, despite Rodrigo’s five successful interventions that had helped secure Madrid’s position.
The Brazilian continued to seethe on the sidelines, his frustration evident to everyone in the stadium. Alonso, anticipating this reaction, simply moved away – his focus remained on the players still competing on the pitch.
Cooling Off Period Needed
Vinicius eventually disappeared down the tunnel, seeking refuge in the dressing room area. He remained there for approximately ten minutes before returning, still muttering under his breath about the decision.
Goalkeeper Andriy Lunin had to step in to calm his frustrated teammate, attempting to diffuse the tense situation on the bench.
Post-Match Damage Control
Alonso addressed the incident diplomatically during his post-match press conference. “There are always many strong personalities on the pitch,” he stated politely, before adding that the situation would be discussed internally within the dressing room.
Late Game Flashpoint
The agitated Vinicius found himself involved in another incident late in the match. When Pedri received a red card, sparking a confrontation between the teams, Alonso had to physically pull the still-furious Vinicius away from the Barcelona players.
The Brazilian’s overly enthusiastic reaction to Barcelona’s red card drew disapproving looks from those around him, with few appreciating his demonstrative celebration of an opponent’s dismissal.
A Pattern of Behavior
This incident highlights a recurring theme for the talented forward – he struggles to remain calm when he’s not the center of attention. Even in victory, with Real Madrid claiming the crucial El Clasico bragging rights, Vinicius found it difficult to accept a supporting role.
Despite Barcelona’s efforts, even with young sensation Yamal on the pitch, Alonso’s tactical decisions ultimately proved decisive in securing the three points for Los Blancos.
The victory may have gone to Real Madrid, but Vinicius’s dramatic reaction to his substitution ensured that the post-match headlines would focus as much on his sideline antics as on the match result itself.
