Vinicius Junior stole the show on Tuesday, scoring a second-half hat trick for Real Madrid as they completed a come-from-behind 5-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund in UEFA Champions League action. The Brazil international completed his hat trick in 31 minutes, saving his most stunning strike for last. Vinicius received the ball about midway into Dortmund’s half and danced around a handful of opposition players as he made his way toward goal, carving out a strong scoring opportunity from close range and did not miss from there.
Take a look at the goal below.
Vinicius scored the equalizer in the 62nd minute, also from close range, and then added a second goal to his account in the 86th minute. His second goal was just as impressive as his third, making a run from inside Real Madrid’s half before shooting from the edge of the penalty area and scoring.
Watch the goal below.
He now has five goals and five assists in 14 games across all competitions this season, carving out his own legacy amidst a star-studded Real Madrid team that remains one of Europe’s most dominant sides. Vinicius is developing a reputation for delivering in big moments, such as his goals in both the 2022 and 2024 Champions League finals.
His accomplishments over the last year, including 15 goals during their La Liga-winning run last season, mean he is the frontrunner to win the Ballon d’Or at next week’s ceremony. Vinicius has a vote of confidence from his Real Madrid teammate Luka Modric, who is one of just two players not named Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo to win the award since 2008.
“Definitely, but not just for tonight but all season, he was outstanding,” Modric told CBS Sports after Real Madird’s win. “We’re looking forward to see who will win it but I think overall, when you see how he played last season and what he is doing this season and especially after tonight, he deserves it.”
“I think he’s going to win it because of what he did last year. The three goals from [Tuesday] will help for the next Ballon d’Or,” Real coach Carlo Ancelotti said after the game.
Vinicius is nominated for the award alongside six of his club teammates, five of whom were part of last season’s La Liga and Champions League double-winning team. The Ballon d’Or ceremony will take place on Monday in Paris.
