Vinicius Junior needed just six minutes to open the scoring for Brazil in their final 2026 World Cup group stage match against Scotland. The Real Madrid superstar capitalized on a defensive blunder during Scotland’s build-up, sprinting through on goal to slot the ball home.
In the 22nd minute, Vinicius doubled Brazil’s lead, practically securing the three points for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, locking down the top spot in the group, and ensuring a smoother path into the knockout stages.
Vinicius had previously scored against Morocco in the opening match and added another in the Seleção’s dominant 3-0 victory in the second round.
The Ultimate World Cup Omen for Brazil
With this brace, Vinicius Jr. becomes only the fifth player in Brazilian football history to score in every single group stage match of a single World Cup edition. He joins an elite, legendary list that includes Jairzinho (1970), Romário (1994), Ronaldo Nazário (2002), and Rivaldo (2002).
Crucially for fans, this statistic serves as the ultimate good luck charm: every single time a Brazilian player has accomplished this feat, the Seleção has gone on to win the FIFA World Cup.
Chasing Lionel Messi
Vinicius has now elevated his total goal contributions in this tournament to five (4 goals and 1 assist), tying him with Lionel Messi. Across his World Cup career between 2022 and 2026, the winger has played 7 matches, racking up an impressive 8 goal contributions.
