After Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid 2-1 in a fiercely contested derby, Vinicius Jr sent out a simple message to the critics: “Dance wherever you want.”
Despite a difficult week that included sickening racist abuse, the Brazilian had to block out the outside noise and maintain focus.
Atletico Madrid captain Koke had advised Vinicius Jr to avoid dancing if he scored, but the 22-year-old winger couldn’t stop himself from celebrating as teammates Rodrygo and Federico Valverde found the net for Los Blancos.
Before the game, Atletico Madrid fans were caught on video singing “Vinicius, you are a monkey” outside the Wanda Metropolitano.
Racist chants could be heard from several sections of the home crowd even during the game, but Vinicius let his football do the talking.
He assisted on both Real Madrid goals as his team battled to a 2-1 victory behind enemy lines.
Vinicius didn’t take long to take to social media to share a simple message, posting a photo of himself dancing alongside Rodrygo after his compatriot’s opener.
“Dance wherever you want,” the post read as Real Madrid won their ninth game in a row in all competitions to reclaim first place in La Liga.
As Vinicius and Rodrygo celebrated their goal by the corner flag, Atletico supporters threw objects at them.
Earlier this week, Pedro Bravo, president of the Spanish agents’ association, accused Vinicius of “playing the monkey,” prompting widespread outrage.
Richarlison of Tottenham Hotspur, who plays with Vinicius at the international level, was among those to express their support for his teammate, alongside Neymar and Gabriel Jesus.
ESPN quoted Richarlison as saying: “Isn’t this a dull situation? “I even texted that guy over there who was talking nonsense to him on the show.” ” But he can continue to have fun, and I’m hoping he scores a goal.
“I called him a s***… but that he solve this as soon as possible so that he doesn’t miss it.”
Atletico Madrid substitute Mario Hermoso was at the heart of the action, scoring for the hosts.
He was later sent off after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession, which dashed his team’s hopes of finding an equalizer.
Real Madrid has now won all six of their La Liga games this season, and Vinicius has been one of the show’s stars. This was the ideal reaction to the outside noise, while Atletico Madrid is now likely to face punishment.
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