Vinicius Jr. talks fight against racism, Brazil’s chances, World Cup form: ‘Progress is slow’

Vinicius Jr. talks fight against racism, Brazil’s chances, World Cup form: ‘Progress is slow’ Vinicius Jr. is one of the many Real Madrid players enjoying a stellar FIFA World Cup campaign, and he has been central to his team’s success thus far. The player scored Brazil’s only goal in their campaign opener against Morocco and then went on to add another to his tally against Haiti. In the third game against Scotland, he netted twice again and is thus among the top goal scorers in the event. His form, needless to say, has peaked at the right time and his ability to step up under pressure is truly showing. His performances, in fact, have even gone on to prompt Real Madrid to fast-track his renewal . Vinicius’ personal interview The Real Madrid megastar spoke to the media via Diario AS in a recent interview where he opened up in depth about a plethora of topics close to his heart. The player opened up on another topic that is close to his heart – the fight against racism in football and how he has always stood as a vocal advocate against the atrocity. Vinicius has been a strong advocate against racism. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images) “These achievements off the field are much more important than those I get on it, because I help many more people,” he said, proud of his work. Vinicius then admitted that there was indeed a long way to go before the vice could be completely eradicated. “Of course, progress is slow, but I hope it continues so that the next generation does not suffer. I have a seven-year-old brother and I hope he doesn’t suffer racism.” “I want to achieve great things in the field, but also continue to inspire young black people who do not have the voice that I have,” he added. On his form and Brazil’s chances The winger was then asked about the Brazilian national team squad and what made them different and special compared to recent Selecao squads. “This is a generation that fights hard to bring Brazil to the top. The sixth star is taking a long time to arrive. We have learned a lot in recent years.” “Many players participated in the last Copa America. Ancelotti gives us freedom, tranquillity, and hope to return to the top,” he added. Vinicius spoke highly of his international teammates. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images) The player then highlighted the importance of having a mix of experience and youth – something the current squad has in good balance. “Having Neymar, Casemiro, Alex Sandro, Danilo and Marquinhos, who have a lot of experience, gives us a lot of freedom so that we, the youngest, have space. I’m only 25 years old, but we have a very good group that comes with Endrick and Rayan.” Finally, Vinicius was about his personal run of good form and how he backed himself to perform under the highest of pressure. “I said before the competition that I was in my best technical, physical and psychological form. I worked very hard during the season to be 100%.” “I didn’t have any injuries, I didn’t miss any Real Madrid game to be 100%. The more you work, the luckier you are,” he added. He then signed off by speaking on his  rare header goal , saying, “I don’t usually score my head. Today there was a bet with the coach. I have only scored two or three heads in my career. I’ll have to choose the gift.”