Vinicius Junior struggled once again for Brazil on Wednesday, with his side having been beaten 4-1 by fierce rivals Argentina.
Selecao struggled to deal with Argentina's physicality and direct speed of attack, but arguably the most concerning aspect of the team's performance was their timid display in the final third.
Matheus Cunha managed to halve the victors' lead to make the score 2-1 in the 26th minute, but his goal only came about due to a poor error from Cristian Romero.
Vinicius Junior spoke in the aftermath of the defeat about the "weight of [the Brazil] jersey" impacting the players when asked about why his team struggled.
The Real Madrid star has often failed to make an impact for Selecao and has in fact only scored six goals in 39 games for his national side, with his form at international level a huge concern ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
© Imago
How much has Vinicius Junior struggled for Brazil?
While Vinicius Junior has only found the back of the net six times for Brazil, he has also only registered six assists, meaning he averages 0.4 goal contributions per 90.
At Real Madrid in La Liga this season, the winger has scored 10 goals and provided five assists, but he boasts 0.77 goal involvements per 90.
The Brazilian averaged 0.97 goals and assists per 90 last term in La Liga, and his impressive displays in Spain make his struggles for the national team even more frustrating.
In Vinicius Junior's defence, teammate Rodrygo has also underperformed for Brazil given he has scored just seven goals and provided one assist in 33 appearances.
Brazil have not won a major tournament since their Copa America triumph in 2019, with that victory their only major trophy since they won the 2002 World Cup.
Unless Vinicius Junior can significantly improve his showings for Selecao, it is difficult to see them beating the likes of Argentina and France to World Cup glory in 2026.
Lewis Nolan
