Vinicius Jr gave Brazil a blistering start in their final Group C clash against Scotland in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on June 24. The Real Madrid forward scored in the seventh minute to put his side in front.
What happened?
Vinicius Jr found the back of the net again before the first hydration break, but the goal was ruled out by VAR. The first goal came from a horrible mistake at the back by the Scottish defence.
The centre-back Scott McKenna was careless in possession while trying to play out from the back. Rayan stole the ball off his feet and rolled it into Vinicius’ path. The forward went around goalkeeper Angus Gunn before shooting into an empty net.
Why was the goal ruled out?
A similar situation arose in the 22nd minute, with young centre-back Jack Hendry trying to play a backpass but being too slow to release the ball. Vinicius made a darting run and stole the ball, finding the bottom corner with a fine finish.
The 25-year-old winger then ran to the touchline to perform his iconic dancing celebration. However, his joy was short-lived, as VAR asked referee Cesar Arturo Ramos to take a look at the incident on the pitchside monitor.
What comes next?
After a lengthy review, the Mexican referee ruled that the winger had fouled Hendry while stealing possession. As a result, he chalked off the goal and instead awarded a free-kick to the Tartan Army.
Despite the reprieve, the European side failed to take advantage, with Scott McTominay and company barely able to retain possession in their opponents’ half of the pitch. The match continued with Brazil pushing for another goal, but the score remained 1-0 in their favour on June 24.