Vinícius Júnior showcased an impressive performance by scoring a hat trick as Real Madrid secured a vital 4-0 victory over Osasuna in La Liga on Saturday. However, the win was overshadowed by a significant injury to teammate Éder Militão, who suffered an ACL tear during the match.
Following two disappointing home games that included a 4-0 loss to Barcelona and a 3-1 defeat to AC Milan, the team was in dire need of a morale-boosting win. Unfortunately, the victory came at a high cost, with Militão collapsing in pain shortly before halftime. He was taken off on a stretcher, and initial reports confirmed he will require surgery for the injury.
The match also saw Rodrygo and Lucas Vázquez leave the pitch due to muscle injuries, adding to the team’s growing list of absences. Vinícius, who expressed his joy for the goals but sadness over his teammates’ injuries, noted the considerable pain Militão must be feeling, recalling the defender’s previous ACL injury last season which kept him out for several months.
Vinícius’s hat trick marked his second of the season, bringing him to a total of 12 goals, while Jude Bellingham also contributed to the scoreline. Coach Carlo Ancelotti praised Vinícius’s performance, suggesting that missing out on the Ballon d’Or did not deter his focus and effectiveness on the field.
This win keeps Madrid in second place, trailing six points behind Barcelona. However, the situation is complicated by several key injuries, including those of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and defender David Alaba, raising concerns about the team’s depth and fitness as the season progresses.
The match was also marked by a poignant moment of solidarity, as Real Madrid paid tribute to the victims of recent catastrophic floods in eastern Spain. The players wore T-shirts before the game to honor those affected by the tragedy.
In another match, Villarreal celebrated a 3-0 win against Alaves but suffered their own misfortune with player Ilias Akhomach leaving the field in tears after injuring his leg following his opening goal.
Despite the challenges, the performances of Vinícius and the team’s collective resilience shine a light of hope for Real Madrid as they look to navigate through a tough stretch of injuries and maintain their pace in the title race. With a talented roster, there remains optimism that the squad can adapt and overcome these adversities.