The Brazilian winger Vinicius showed he could control games in Benzema’s absence, who was rested ahead of Madrid’s Champions League fixture
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti hailed Vinicius Junior as an “extraordinary player” who managed to bring home the three points in Karim Benzema’s absence.
Ancelotti praises difference maker Vinicius
Ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League clash with Liverpool on Wednesday, Carlo Ancelotti opted to rest Benzema. But not having their talisman wasn’t an issue since Vinicius managed to lead Real Madrid to victory. He assisted Valverde on Real Madrid’s first goal and then scored twice, which were ruled out due to being offside.
“It is clear that Vinicius is a player who makes a difference,” Ancelotti said at his post-match press conference.
“He played an outstanding game. He is an extraordinary footballer.”
Ancelotti was less impressed with how they won the game, waiting till the last 15 minutes to score their first.
“What I liked least is that we have done in the second half what we could have done in the first,” he added.
“What I liked most is that the team has not lost its mind and has been patient [in the final stages].
“The team has played well. They have had to suffer when they had to suffer and we are very satisfied with that.”
“He played an outstanding game. Vinicius is an extraordinary footballer.”
Kroos and Tchouameni both were sidelined due to injury. However, Ancelotti assured fans that the pair would be fit to face Liverpool.
“We had a last-minute problem with Tchoaumeni, but we’re fine,” he continued.
“We will go into Tuesday’s game with good dynamics. The players are recovering and we will arrive with all the confidence in the world.”
