The skill of Vinicius Jr.
Real Madrid will most likely have to face Kyle Walker in the second leg after fortunately avoiding the world-class – and somehow underrated – right back in the first fixture due to injury. John Stones did not even play the majority of the game due to his own injury, meaning Vinicius Jr. got to face a defensive midfielder one-on-one at right back. And he took advantage in memorable fashion, pulling off a signature nutmeg turn to set up a sensational solo goal.
Vinicius will not have it easy in the second leg against Walker and City, but we know how much he loves playing for the Bernabeu. Against PSG, he was anonymous in the first leg and pocketed by young right back Achraf Hakimi. In the second leg, he roasted the former Madridista, proving unplayable at times in front of the raucous atmosphere of the legendary Bernabeu.
The left winger is arguably the best in the world at his position this season, producing two goals and six assists in the current Champions League campaign as the top all-around creator.
As we saw against Manchester City in the first leg, Vini Jr. just needs the slightest opportunity to change the entire game. He just needs one play to bring Real Madrid back into the game or seal a victory. Benzema netted the winning header against Chelsea in the second leg, but it was Vini’s running in transition and cross that truly created the goal.
The most skillful player in the world and one of the most statistically effective, Vini Jr. has been the X-Factor of all X-Factors during his time at Real Madrid. Though he is only 21, no spotlight is too bright for Vini, no stage too big. Not even the Champions League.