Vinicius Junior double rescues Brazil and answers Real Madrid critics

Vinicius Junior scored twice as Brazil recovered from two early goals to draw 2-2 with Japan, producing a timely reminder of his finishing ability during a difficult period with Real Madrid.

The forward has faced increasing criticism over his reduced attacking output and a run of matches without scoring. His performance in Brazil’s opening game of their Asian tour, led by manager Carlo Ancelotti, offered a significant personal boost.

Japan made the stronger start in the November international break match, taking the lead in the 15th minute. Takefusa Kubo collected a precise pass from Ritsu Doan, moved into the penalty area and sent a left-footed shot beyond Brazil goalkeeper Morisco.

The hosts doubled their advantage four minutes later. Shuto Nakano delivered a low cross into the box and Kaito Nakamura met it with a composed finish into the bottom-right corner, leaving Brazil facing a difficult challenge before the match had settled.

Vinicius began the recovery in the 33rd minute. Bruno Guimaraes found him outside the area and the Real Madrid forward unleashed a powerful strike which the Japan goalkeeper could not keep out.

The goal carried particular significance for Vinicius, who has been under pressure at club level because of his recent statistics. Spanish newspaper Marca described it as “a great goal from Vinicius Junior to make up for himself at a difficult time for him at Real Madrid, with his suspension continuing and criticism of his performances”.

Mundo Deportivo also praised the finish, saying the Real Madrid player had rediscovered his scoring touch. “Vinicius struck a powerful shot from the edge of the area, with the ball settling in the top corner of the goal,” it reported. “This goal restored hope for Brazil, who until then had been well below Japan’s level.”

Vinicius completed the comeback in the 75th minute. Again receiving the ball from Bruno Guimaraes, he hit a strong effort which struck the left post before crossing the line, bringing Brazil level at 2-2 and completing his double.

The goals ended a significant period without scoring. Vinicius had last scored for Brazil in September and for Real Madrid in August.

Before the international break, he had scored only once for Real Madrid in all competitions this season, against Real Sociedad. He had also provided three assists in La Liga but had neither scored nor assisted in the Champions League, according to Transfermarkt.

Brazil’s match against Japan was the first of two friendlies on the tour. Ancelotti intends to use the games to assess players and settle on his options before Brazil face Singapore on Tuesday at the same stadium.

Japan were seeking to underline their progress against one of football’s leading nations. Brazil beat them 2-1 in the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup, while Japan won a notable friendly between the sides 3-2 in October 2025.