Vinciusi expected to play in Brazil’s friendly against Croatia
Express newspaper
29/03/2026 21:28
Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior is expected to play for Brazil in the second friendly of this international break, despite a slight physical discomfort during the week.
Vinicius started in the 2-1 defeat to France on Thursday, but missed Friday’s training session due to a muscle problem.
He was initially considered doubtful for the match against Croatia, but now it appears he will be ready for this clash, a “rematch” of the 2022 World Cup quarter-final.
Brazil will travel to Orlando, Florida, to face Croatia, and his return to training on Sunday confirmed that it was only a minor concern.
It would be a surprise if he doesn’t play against a team led by Luka Modric.
The 24-year-old has regained his best form under the guidance of Alvaro Arbeloa, who has declared that he is “very close to the best form of his career”.
In the Madrid derby, Vinicius scored twice in Real’s 3-2 victory, keeping the team four points behind Barcelona in the title race.
His form and relationship with Arbeloa have also delayed talks to renew his contract with the club.
Since Arbeloa’s arrival, Vinicius has been among Real Madrid’s best players, alongside Thibaut Courtois.
Currently, any potential success for Los Blancos in Europe and the league seems closely linked to his continued form – and an injury would be a major blow to their ambitions./Express newspaper/