Vinicius returns – at the right time and with great composure.

Vini contributed one goal in Real Madrid's 3-0 victory over Salzburg.

For a long time, Vinicius Jr. hadn't been as explosive as before – no more lightning-fast sprints, no more dazzling plays that could tear apart opposing defenses in an instant. But in Philadelphia, in the crucial match that propelled Real Madrid to the top of their group in the FIFA Club World Cup, Vinicius was back.

And the Brazilian star returned in the most impressive way possible: decisive, classy, and displaying the image of a true leader in attack.

In an experimental move, Xabi Alonso used a three-centre-back formation for the first time since taking charge of Real Madrid against Salzburg. A bold choice – and no one can say for sure whether it's a sustainable long-term strategy.

But one thing is certain: in any formation, Real Madrid still needs a Vinicius at his best. And this match proved he is on his way back to his most dangerous form.

The opening goal was a moment that clearly reflected Vinicius's instinct and technique. Following a clever pass from Bellingham – who also played brilliantly in this match – Vini made a delicate touch, turned to the left, and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot. No defender could get close. No goalkeeper could stop it. A quick, cool, and truly "killer" finish.

Vini is making a comeback.

But perhaps the most memorable moment came from the second assist. A surprising yet calculated backheel pass, as if Vinicius had the entire game in sight. Valverde – who always knows how to move intelligently – surged forward at the right moment, controlled the ball with one touch, and then finished into the far corner. A goal that was a testament to teamwork, but originated from the genius intuition of the Brazilian player.

After the match, Vinicius humbly said on DAZN : "I haven't watched it again, but it's probably one of the best assists I've ever made. Especially since it was Valverde - who always trusts and supports me a lot."

The Brazilian star spoke with the composure of someone who understands his own worth, but is also maturing to become a leader not only through goals, but also through his footballing mindset.

Also in the interview, Vini admitted that the team played better in the first half, but ran out of steam in the second – which is perfectly normal in a game where they control the game well. He praised coach Xabi Alonso, who is gradually instilling a new football philosophy into the squad. And indeed – the backheel assist was not just a moment of improvisation, but the product of confidence, a willingness to take risks, and a system that is developing in the right direction.

Real Madrid needs Vini at his best for the remainder of the FIFA Club World Cup.

With this victory, Real Madrid not only secured the top spot in Group H of the FIFA Club World Cup, but also regained a crucial foothold. Vinicius is back in form, Bellingham remains consistent, and Xabi Alonso is gradually experimenting with new tactics.

However, the real tests have only just begun. Juventus await in the knockout round, and that will be a formidable opponent to verify whether Alonso's three-centre-back system is solid enough, and whether his proactive defensive style and high defensive line can be fully effective under intense pressure.

As for Vinicius, he doesn't need to prove anything more. What he showed in Philadelphia wasn't just a personal performance, but a message to the rest of the league: the Brazilian star is back – faster, sharper, and more dangerous than ever. And with Vinicius back, Real Madrid suddenly have a very real chance to dream of winning the championship.

Source: https://znews.vn/vinicius-tro-lai-dung-luc-va-day-ban-linh-post1564152.html