Travelling to Venezuela for the 11ᵉ day of South American qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, Brazil experienced an unexpected turning point when Vinícius Jr missed a crucial penalty that could have given the Seleção victory.
Brazil could do no better than a dismal 1-1 draw against Venezuela on Thursday evening on Matchday 11 of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. And yet it was the Seleção who opened the scoring before the break with a magnificent free-kick from Raphinha. However, Brazil’s moment of grace was overshadowed when, immediately after the restart, Venezuela coach Fernando Batista made a strategic change that paid dividends by bringing on Telasco Segovia, who equalised with his first touch.
The situation intensified in the 59ᵉ minute. Vinicius Jr, after a break down the right flank, was brought down in the box by Venezuelan goalkeeper Rafael Romo, leading the referee, after consulting VAR, to award a penalty. The Real Madrid star, despite his recent scoring difficulties with the Seleção, took his responsibilities. Vini came up against the keeper before seeing his second attempt go wide.
This missed opportunity comes on the back of a difficult period for Vinícius in the national side: in six appearances, the Real Madrid star has yet to find the net. His lack of effectiveness in the Canarinha shirt contrasts with his performances at club level. And this is obviously raising questions in Brazil about his adaptation and his role in the national team.
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