Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu erupted in cheers on Tuesday night as Vinicius Jr scored a stunning hat-trick to lead his side to a remarkable 5-2 comeback victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League. The Brazilian forward, who has become a fan favourite in the Spanish capital, took centre stage in a dramatic clash that saw Real overturn a 2-0 deficit to secure a crucial win. With the Ballon d’Or ceremony just days away, Vinicius Jr’s masterclass couldn’t have come at a better time.
In the hours following the match, chants for Vinicius Jr to win the Ballon d’Or echoed throughout the stadium. The 24-year-old forward, who has been integral to Real Madrid’s recent success, expressed his love for the club, saying, “I want to stay at Real Madrid forever.” His loyalty and exceptional form have endeared him to the fans, while his incredible performances on the pitch have solidified his status as one of the best players in the world.
The match against Dortmund was a testament to Vinicius Jr’s extraordinary ability. After falling behind 2-0 in the first half, Real Madrid appeared to be heading for a disappointing defeat. However, the team rallied, with Vinicius Jr leading the charge. His first goal came from a brilliant solo effort, dribbling past defenders with ease before slotting the ball into the bottom corner. His second and third goals were equally impressive, demonstrating his clinical finishing and flair.
By the final whistle, Vinicius had not only secured a crucial victory for his team but also firmly positioned himself as the frontrunner for football’s most prestigious individual accolade—the Ballon d’Or. With his hat-trick, Vinicius Jr has now been involved in 35 goals in his last 35 Champions League starts, a staggering statistic that highlights his consistent brilliance on the biggest stage. In these appearances, he has scored 20 goals and provided 15 assists, making him one of the most productive and exciting players in the competition.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has been effusive in his praise for Vinicius Jr, calling him “an extraordinary character” and confidently stating, “He will win the Ballon d’Or.” Ancelotti’s faith in the young forward is well-founded. Last season, Vinicius played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League double, scoring in the Champions League final and later being named the competition’s best player. His performances under pressure have set him apart as a player who thrives in crucial moments.
The Brazilian’s individual accolades have also extended beyond the pitch. Last year, Vinicius Jr won the Socrates Award, given to the footballer who has made the most significant contribution to humanitarian work. His efforts off the pitch, particularly in promoting education and fighting racism, have earned him widespread admiration and respect. The Socrates Award, introduced only two years ago, has become a symbol of the impact footballers can make beyond the sport, and Vinicius Jr has embraced that responsibility.
With the Ballon d’Or ceremony just around the corner—set to take place on Monday, 28 October—speculation is rife that Vinicius Jr is the favourite to take home the coveted trophy. Rumours have even surfaced that Nike plans to release special golden Mercurial boots in his honour, only adding to the excitement surrounding his potential victory.
At just 24 years old, Vinicius Jr is already cementing his legacy as one of the best footballers of his generation. His rapid rise to stardom has been marked by his relentless work ethic, humility, and dedication to both his craft and his community. While the Ballon d’Or is an individual accolade, Vinicius Jr’s success is undoubtedly intertwined with his contributions to Real Madrid’s ongoing dominance in European football.
As the countdown to the Ballon d’Or ceremony continues, the debate surrounding who will win intensifies. However, many fans and pundits believe that Vinicius Jr’s performances over the past year have made him the clear favourite. His electric display against Dortmund has only reinforced the belief that he deserves the title of the world’s best player.
Whether or not Vinicius Jr lifts the Ballon d’Or on 28 October, his future at Real Madrid looks brighter than ever. He has already achieved more than most players could dream of, and at his current trajectory, there is no telling how far he will go. As he said after the match, “I want to stay at this club forever,” and if his performances continue to shine, it seems likely that Real Madrid will be more than happy to grant him his wish.
