Vinicius Jr. reveals Ancelotti promise after Brazil beat Scotland: ‘He owes me a present’ | OneFootball

Vinicius Jr. delivered another match-winning display as Brazil booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 with a convincing 3-0 victory over Scotland.

The Real Madrid forward scored twice in Miami, earning the Player of the Match award for the second time in the tournament and continuing his impressive goalscoring form. 

Following the final whistle, Vinicius reflected on Brazil’s growing confidence under Carlo Ancelotti, discussed the VAR decision that denied him a hat-trick and joked about a promise made by the former Real Madrid manager.

Brazil’s progress under Carlo Ancelotti

Brazil have steadily improved after an inconsistent start to their World Cup campaign, and Vinicius believes the squad has adapted well to the demands of tournament football.

Looking back at the team’s development, the winger said, 

Vinicius could have scored a hat-trick. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

“When we drew against Morocco, we talked about how the lads are developing, understanding what the competition demands, and recognising the best moments to attack, defend and dig deep during the game. 

“I think we played our best game today. Under Ancelotti, the players need to develop and improve because we’re now in the knockout stages and this is the most crucial phase of the competition.”

The 25-year-old also praised the collective improvement shown by the Brazilian squad.

“The players are playing closer together, defending better and attacking better. 

“I think the manager will only make things better, or perhaps the players have already done well – and developing as the competition progresses is the most important thing.”

Vinicius on VAR frustration and Ancelotti promise

Although he finished with two goals, Vinicius admitted he was disappointed to see another strike ruled out following a VAR review. Reflecting on the incident, he said,

Vinicius scored a brace against Scotland. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

“It’s a shame my goal was disallowed because that would have made it three goals in the competition. 

“I’ve never scored three goals here for the national team, but what matters is the victory and how our team is developing, because the next phase is about to begin – it’s do-or-die – where the lads have to put in great performances and keep improving to take Brazil to the very top.”

The Real Madrid attacker also shared a light-hearted exchange involving Carlo Ancelotti before the match.

After scoring with a header, Vinicius reminded the Brazil coach about a promise he had made.

“Ancelotti owes me a present. I promised the manager I’d score with a header; he told me it was impossible… and that he’d give me a present if I did. I’m waiting,” he revealed.

Source: AS