Vinicius Jr. shines for Brazil as South Africa makes history

By Rohan Gupta — 25 June 2026 — 3 min read

Vinicius Jr.’s impact for Brazil

Vinicius Jr. showcased his talent for Brazil, scoring a brace in their 3-0 victory against Scotland. This performance contributed to Brazil’s improved form, as they have shown progress in every half since a challenging start against Morocco. Vinicius Jr.’s two goals on Wednesday placed him in a group of Brazilian players including Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Jairzinho, and Romario, who have scored multiple goals in World Cup group stage matches.

His first goal came in the seventh minute after Rayan, who has been playing a key role since Raphinha‘s injury, forced an error from Scott McKenna. Vinicius Jr. then rounded Angus Gunn to convert the opportunity. Later, in first-half stoppage time, he headed in a deep delivery from Bruno Guimaraes to make the score 2-0. This marked his first international goal with a header and only his sixth in over 400 club appearances.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti made tactical adjustments following a 1-1 draw. Matheus Cunha replaced Igor Thiago in the starting lineup, offering a false nine role that created space for Vinicius Jr. and the wide right to cut inside. Another change saw Danilo come in for Roger Ibanaez at right-back, and Casemiro was instructed to play deeper to protect the defense. These changes allowed Guimaraes and Lucas Paqueta more freedom to play upfield, and five of Brazil’s six goals since these adjustments have involved either Guimaraes or Paqueta.

South Africa’s historic World Cup run

In other World Cup news, South Africa made history by advancing to the knockout round for the first time. They secured their spot with a 1-0 win against South Korea in Monterrey. The decisive goal came in the 63rd minute from Thapelo Maseko, followed by a strong defensive performance.

This achievement marks a significant turnaround for South Africa, who were the first hosts in World Cup history to be eliminated in the group stage. It took them 16 years to reach this stage again. Coach Hugo Broos, a 74-year-old, has been credited with instilling belief in the team. After a difficult opening match, South Africa managed a draw against Czechia before their historic win.

Brazil has not won the World Cup title since 2002, marking their longest drought alongside the period between 1970 and 1994. The team is currently on track to top their group, a feat they have consistently achieved since 1982.

Brazil’s tactical approach

Ancelotti had previously noted that no team wins a World Cup in their first match, emphasizing the tournament’s evolving nature. His experience as a player, assistant coach, and now head coach provides him with a deep understanding of the competition. The current Brazil squad is characterized by its solidity rather than spectacular play, focusing on winning balls during transitions.

The team’s approach was evident in their final goal against Scotland, where Guimaraes broke through the defense and delivered a pass that Cunha finished. This style of play, while not always flashy, is seen as effective for winning World Cups. Brazil’s next potential challenge could be a round-of-16 meeting with Japan, the Netherlands, or Sweden.

Cunha’s goal against Scotland also made Brazil the only team with two players among the top 10 goalscorers in the tournament.

Source: hindustantimes.com

Rohan Gupta

Sports Reporter