Vinicius Junior explains how Arsenal man is helping him gain back his confidence

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·30 September 2026

Vinicius Junior explains how Arsenal man is helping him gain back his confidence

Bruno Guimaraes scored one of Brazil’s goals in their 4-2 win over Australia yesterday, but the Arsenal midfielder could have finished the match with two goals. He is Brazil’s designated penalty taker when Raphinha is not on the pitch, and the Barcelona player had been injured and substituted when Brazil were awarded a spot kick.

Guimaraes had scored just ten minutes earlier, allowing him to complete a quick double, as many players would have wanted to do. However, the Arsenal star handed the responsibility to Vinicius Junior instead. The Real Madrid forward was grateful for the chance, as he explained how much the goal meant to him.

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Vinicius had been short of goals for both club and country and needed a goal to improve his confidence. Guimaraes recognised that and allowed his teammate to take the penalty during the match.

Guimaraes Puts Team First

After the game, Vinicius said via Get Football News Spain:

“Bruno Guimarães is our penalty taker when Raphinha isn’t playing, and I thought he’d want to take it… but he knows that I need a bit of confidence right now, in this moment.”

The decision was a classy gesture from Guimaraes and showed how much of a team player he is. Rather than focusing on personal glory, he prioritised the confidence of his teammate and helped Vinicius take advantage of an important opportunity.

(Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images)

A Valuable Gesture

Guimaraes could have taken the penalty and attempted to score twice in the match, but he understood that Vinicius needed the moment more. His decision reflected the unity within the Brazil squad and demonstrated that he is willing to put the team’s needs ahead of his own statistics.

For Vinicius, the goal could provide a much-needed boost after a difficult period in front of goal. For Guimaraes, the gesture further underlined his importance to Brazil, not only as a midfielder but also as a player who contributes to the team’s spirit and togetherness.

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