Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) superstar Neymar has publicly defended Real Madrid ace Vinicius Junior amid criticism over the latter’s extravagant post-goal celebration.
Vinicius Junior found the back of the net in Real Madrid's most recent La Liga clash against Mallorca (September 11), helping his team to a 4-1 win. After his 72nd-minute strike, the Brazilian left-winger pulled off a Samba dance in front of the corner flag, reminiscent of Barcelona legend Ronaldinho.
While the celebration was very much appreciated by Madrid fans, the Mallorca bench, especially their coach Javier Aguirre, was seemingly offended by it. The Mexican coach voiced his anger by instructing his players to punish his audacity (via Sport).
Vinicius’ compatriot Neymar has seemingly kept track of the development and dropped a message of support for his international teammate. Via an Instagram story, the PSG forward asked him to remain true to himself and keep up the good work. He wrote (via Madrid Xtra):
“Dribble, dance & be you! Happy just the way you are. Go for it my boy, next goal we dance 🕺”
Neymar-Vinicius Junior partnership could be key for Brazil at the 2022 FIFA World Cup
Both Neymar and Vinicius Junior have been in excellent form for their respective teams this season. Both have dazzled defenders with their runs, combined well with their teammates, and popped up with important goal contributions.
The former Barcelona man has featured in 10 games for the Parisians this season across competitions, recording 11 goals and seven assists. Vinicius Junior, on the other hand, has scored five goals and picked up three assists in eight games for Real Madrid across competitions.
Brazil, who have not won the FIFA World Cup since 2002, will need all their star players to fire on all cylinders to go deep in Qatar later this year.
The two in-form forwards will need to bring their club form to the international stage and make sure they are on the same wavelength. If they can find a way to play to each other’s strengths, the Selecao would have a great shot at dismantling even the tightest defenses at the Qatar World Cup.
MegonFox
139
Real Madrid save Spain from the hands of the Germans as always. Real Madrid are the only spanish team to win this week in ucl
MadridMaldives
88
So many are showing their love and support to our youngster; 🗣 Lucas Paqueta on IG: “A warning that this is just the beginning. Dance & Dance.” 🗣 Raphinha on IG: “I want to see dance. I want to see joy.” 🗣 Neymar on IG: “Dribble, dance & be you! Happy just the way you are. Go for it my boy, next goal we dance 🕺” 🗣 Vini Jr replies to Neymar’s IG story: “Always and we ain’t stopping! 🕺” 🤩😍
neuaclns
67
wow Neymar being the Big Brother. Good luck Vinicius. hope we can see Some Neymar Redemption this year World Cup
CHAMPIONSLEAGUES
41
Vinicius and Neymar will win Brazil the world cup. The two are just the best
jesalam14
26
trouble awaits u ATM😂 the lad will not just dance, but will also make u dance to his tune💯
eggosa91
20
IN VINI WE TRUST👌😌
Beyadekoru
18
I remember when Neymar tried an overhead flick against a rival in la liga, everyone went crazy on it ,,,,, I really don’t understand anymore …. They want these talented players to play like morons all in the name of respect …. Sure I don’t want vini to score cos am a rival but if he ends up scoring I don’t see why he can’t celebrate the way he wants
JoyNg
13
Neymar on Instagram to Vinicius Jr: “Dribble, dance and be you. Enjoy just the way you are. Go for it my boy, next goal we dance.”🕺😊 .... Hope he score in that Derby💔😍😍
hurlla
11
The funniest part is all real Madrid players will make sure vini scores on Sunday... so he can dance and let's see who dare brings the trouble... can't wait for Sunday ooo..... violence in the air