Vinicius Junior struck first in the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich to equal a rare competition record.
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- Vinicius Jr. scores against Bayern Munich
- Real Madrid take early lead in tie
- Brazilian ties Champions League goal record
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WHAT HAPPENED?
The Real Madrid forward netted the semi-final tie's opening goal in the 24th minute of the first leg at the Allianz Arena in Munich. It was a remarkable, measured through ball from Toni Kroos against his former club and a composed first-time finish from Vini on his right foot beyond the on-rushing Manuel Neuer.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Vinicius Junior had previously scored in the Champions League semi-finals against Manchester City in both 2021-22 and 2022-23, making this the third successive season in which he has found the net in the competition's last four. Only Cristiano Ronaldo (2011-12, 2012-13, 2013-14, 2014-15), Kevin De Bruyne (2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23) and Jari Litmanen (1994-95, 1995-96, 1996-97) have previously achieved that feat in the competition.
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WHAT NEXT FOR VINICIUS JR?
With La Liga all but sewn up, Vinicius Junior is targeting his second career Champions League title this season. If he helps Real Madrid achieve that, the Brazilian could even be a genuine contender for the 2024 Ballon d'Or, although he would face stiff competition from current team-mate Jude Bellingham and expected future team-mate Kylian Mbappe.
