Vinícius Júnior delivered a spectacular performance for Real Madrid, netting a hat trick in a crucial 4-0 victory against Osasuna in La Liga on Saturday. However, the joy of the win was overshadowed by injuries to key players, including Éder Militão, who suffered a torn ACL.
The match marked a significant turnaround for Madrid, who faced harsh criticism following recent losses at home, including a 4-0 defeat to archrival Barcelona and a 3-1 setback against AC Milan. The resounding win was marred by injuries sustained in the first half. Militão collapsed in pain before halftime, clutching his right knee, and was stretchered off the field. Teammates Rodrygo and Lucas Vázquez also left the pitch due to muscle injuries during the first half.
Vinícius expressed mixed emotions following the match, saying, “We played a good game and I am happy for the goals, but sad for the injuries to Mili, Rodry, and Lucas. I am sad that Mili has to go through this again.” The Brazilian forward, who seemed motivated after not winning the Ballon d’Or last week, earned his second hat trick of the season, bringing his goal total to 12. Jude Bellingham also scored, putting Madrid ahead 2-0 before halftime.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti praised Vinícius for his impactful performance, noting that not winning the Ballon d’Or did not seem to affect him on the pitch. With this victory, Real Madrid currently sits in second place in La Liga, trailing Barcelona by six points.
The impact of injuries is being felt heavily by the team. Rodrygo, who had an emotional departure from the field, and Militão, who required surgery following his injury, add to a lengthy list of unavailable players, including Dani Carvajal and Thibaut Courtois. Ancelotti remarked on the unusual frequency of injuries, attributing it to the demanding schedule that often limits player rest.
The match kicked off with a poignant moment, as Madrid honored over 200 victims of recent floods in eastern Spain with a moment of silence and a large banner.
Despite the setbacks, the promising performances from emerging players like Raúl Asencio, who assisted Bellingham’s goal, and the brilliance of Vinícius suggests that there is still hope for Real Madrid moving forward. As the team works to overcome these challenges, they remain committed to pushing for success in the league.
This match highlighted not only the talent within the squad but also their resilience in times of adversity, showcasing the spirit of Madrid as they continue their campaign.