Vinicius Jr Admits Scoring Crisis After Missing Two Sitters in Elche Win
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. publicly accepted responsibility for his current finishing slump following a 3-2 victory over Elche on September 16, 2026. The Brazilian international managed five shot attempts during the contest but placed only one on target, leaving him with a yield of one goal across seven appearances in all competitions this season.
Jose Mourinho Substituted Vinicius Jr. Ahead of Atletico Madrid Derby
The forward failed to capitalize on two clear opportunities during the match, first dragging a one-on-one effort wide instead of passing to team-mate Arda Guler, before failing to direct another second-half chance on target from a quick transition play. Real Madrid secured the league victory through goals from Guler, Kylian Mbappe, and Carlos Espi, but manager Jose Mourinho elected to withdraw Vinicius Jr. in the 68th minute to preserve his condition for the upcoming derby match.
Arda Güler
playerThe statistical drop in conversion arrives as Real Madrid navigate early-season fixture congestion ahead of Sunday’s derby against Atletico Madrid. Winning despite the frontline inefficiency leaves the squad reliant on mid-game adjustments while their primary wide threat works through a period of low productivity.
“The goals will come back; I can’t miss that much…”
Jose Mourinho
coachTactician • Park the Bus Defending, Vertical Counter-Attacking, Tactical Discipline🏛️ Real Madrid 🌍 Portugal→
“He’s missing the goal.”
Madrid Universal first reported the player’s post-match statements.