Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images
Controversy and Vinicius Junior have become nearly inseparable and the situation was certainly not different during last night’s El Clasico.
In the 79th minute of the contest, the Brazil international found himself in the spotlight again. With Barcelona leading 3-0, Vinicius was booked with a yellow card by referee Sanchez Martinez after he appeared to step on Pedri’s right heel.
Frustrated, the Brazilian winger quickly voiced his discontent to the official, arguing that it was his first serious challenge. His visible annoyance led him to confront the referee, who had heard it all before.
“You’re always the same! You’re always the same,” the forward yelled at Martinez.
A narrow escape
Tensions only grew as the match progressed, especially after a fierce challenge on Inigo Martinez, which led Barcelona’s defender to call for a second yellow card for Vinicius.
Though Vinicius narrowly avoided further punishment, the forward continued to be involved in a series of intense duels on the field.
With less than ten minutes remaining, his attempts to break through Barcelona’s defence turned physical, resulting in a series of pushes, tackles, and jostling.
The intensity reached a peak when Barcelona’s midfielder Gavi engaged in the physical play with Vinicius. These two young, passionate players reignited their rivalry on the pitch, each challenge seeming to add fuel to an already heated match.
Just five minutes of gameplay between them was enough to raise the tension further, making the atmosphere even more charged.
Meanwhile, the yellow card against Barcelona adds to Vinicius’ growing list of cautions this season.
Having previously received cards in matches against Real Betis, Espanyol, and Alaves, Vinicius is now just one booking away from a one-match suspension due to accumulated cautions.
