BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 29: Vinicius Jose Paixao de Oliveira Junior of Brazil celebrates scoring a goal during the International Friendly match between Australia Socceroos and Brazil at Suncorp Stadium on September 29, 2026 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Matt Roberts/Getty Images)
Real Madrid star Vinícius Jr. has provided an insight into the decision of compatriot Bruno Guimarães to hand responsibility of a late penalty to the winger during Brazil’s latest outing.
Carlo Ancelotti’s troops were back in action earlier today, locking horns with Australia in a friendly clash.
When all was said and done, the South American heavyweights emerged on the right side of the result, recovering from a first-half deficit to ultimately triumph by three goals to two.
The aforementioned Vinícius, meanwhile, rounded out the scoring in proceedings, courtesy of a late spot-kick. This only came after the ball was handed to the 26-year-old by teammate Bruno Guimarães, though.
Speaking to the media in the aftermath of the full-time whistle on Tuesday, Vinícius revealed a classy personal gesture on the part of Arsenal man Bruno, who had already added his name to the scoresheet at the time:
“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.”
🇧🇷🔥 Vini Jr on decision to take the penalty: “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”. pic.twitter.com/D8az0PVXWA
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 29, 2026
Conor Laird – GSFN