SOCCER: Vinicius responds to critics with stellar display as Real Madrid thrash Monaco

MADRID — Vinicius Jr. delivered a scintillating performance to inspire Real Madrid to a commanding 6–1 victory over Monaco in the Champions League on Tuesday, silencing recent criticism from fans.

The Brazilian winger, named UEFA’s Man of the Match, orchestrated the rout with dazzling dribbles, two assists, and a spectacular goal.

However, the 25-year-old admitted after the match that the booing he has faced from the Bernabeu crowd in recent weeks had taken a toll.

“This performance means a lot because of everything that has been happening in recent days,” Vinicius told TNT Sports.

“The change of coach, losing the Spanish Super Cup final, being knocked out of the Copa del Rey — playing for the biggest club in the world comes with high demands. Sometimes we don’t understand the boos, but I know the size of the club and the weight of the shirt.”

The hostility peaked during Saturday’s LaLiga match against Levante, where Vinicius was jeered throughout the game, particularly during the announcement of the starting lineup.

Fans were left disillusioned after a turbulent month that included a Spanish Super Cup defeat to Barcelona, an embarrassing 3–2 Copa del Rey exit to second-division Albacete, and the abrupt sacking of manager Xabi Alonso after just seven months in charge.

Media reports of internal tensions, including clashes between Alonso and Vinicius, further darkened the mood at the Bernabeu.

But Tuesday’s emphatic display, led by Vinicius, appeared to turn the tide.

“The only thing I can do is on the pitch — to give my all. I won’t always be technically perfect, but I will always give 100% for the team,” Vinicius said.

“I don’t want to be booed at home, where I feel comfortable. But the fans have their rights, and I am here to evolve. I want to stay at Real Madrid for a long time.”

Since joining Real Madrid in 2018, Vinicius has been integral to the club’s successes, winning the Champions League twice. He scored in both finals — against Liverpool in 2022 and Borussia Dortmund in 2024, the year he also won FIFA’s The Best Award.

-Reporting by Fernando Kallas; Editing by Toby Davis/Reuters