ไทย
English
中國人
For only the fourth time throughout his senior career, Vinícius Júnior received a red card. His most recent offense was particularly unusual, as it occurred immediately after he had seemingly given Real Madrid a 2–0 advantage in their La Liga clash against Villarreal.
The straightforward finish, which came thanks to Jude Bellingham's outstanding work down the left side, was poised to end a six-week drought for a goal from open play. Vinícius Jr celebrated in his typical fashion, joined by José Mourinho, who, at 63 years old, no longer moved with the energy of his younger days, but the Brazilian's elation was quickly cut short.
A VAR review not only ruled out the Brazilian's goal, but the footage also revealed that Vinícius Jr had gained his favorable position when surging past Nathan Saliba by pulling his hair.
Under IFAB's Law 12, that constitutes violent conduct. The red card was fully warranted.
An enraged Mourinho declined to face the media after the match, with Vinícius Jr now set to miss the first Clásico through suspension. Nevertheless, Madrid will have their struggling Brazilian forward available for their next fixture.
Why Vinícius Júnior Isn't Banned for Real Madrid's Next Champions League Match
Isidro Díaz de Mera's report is unlikely to work in the player's favor, and Madrid, who plan to appeal, are anticipating that Vinícius Jr will face a three-match suspension.
Los Blancos have two Champions League fixtures scheduled within that window, but domestic bans do not extend into European competition. The Brazilian must serve his suspension in La Liga, meaning that if a three-match ban is handed down, he will miss matches against Sevilla, Barcelona, and Racing Santander before returning against Valencia on Nov. 8.
The Champions League enters a crucial stretch over the coming weeks. After just one league phase matchday during the early part of the season, Madrid face three European fixtures before the international break returns next month. Roma, RB Leipzig, and AEK Athens all lie ahead. Provided he stays fit, Viní Jr will be available for all three contests.
It is a pivotal spell for Mourinho, who has yet to fully persuade supporters that he is the right person to help Los Blancos reclaim domestic supremacy from Barcelona. Furthermore, anything short of another complete European triumph is considered a disappointment for the 15-time European champions, and Mourinho has not lifted the Champions League since guiding Inter Milan to the treble back in 2010.
One of Madrid's upcoming opponents, Roma, will take some comfort after Donyell Malen was sent off in their Serie A draw with Como on Sunday. Malen, who has been among the most prolific players on the planet this calendar year, will serve a domestic ban but will be available when the Giallarossi host Mourinho's side on Matchday 2 of the league phase on Wednesday.