Vinicius Jr: Fans Blast Real Madrid Star for ‘Ghosting’ As Brazil Held by Costa Rica in Copa America

• A cross-section of football fans have chided Vinicius Junior for his sub-par display in Brazil's opening match at Copa America 2024
• The nine-time South American champions were held to a disappointing stalemate on Tuesday, with Vini Jr. struggling to impose himself
• He, however, had a penalty appeal in the first half waived off, with Costa Rica holding on to seal a famous goalless draw against the Selecao

Vinicius Junior faced criticism after Brazil's frustrating draw with Costa Rica in their Copa America opener on Tuesday, June 25.

Tipped by many as a top contender for the 2024 Ballon d'Or following an impressive season with Real Madrid, the 23-year-old was expected to lead Brazil's charge for a 10th South American championship crown.

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However, the match turned out to be frustrating for Vinicius and his teammates, as Costa Rica ensured Dorival Junior's charges began the tournament on a shaky note, per The Athletic.

How did Vinicius fare against Costa Rica?

Playing on his preferred left flank, Vini Jr. appeared threatening with his dribbles but was effectively neutralised in the final third by a combination of resolute opposition defence and poor decision-making by the Brazilian attack.

His link-up with Rodrygo, Raphinha, and Lucas Paqueta failed to yield results, leaving the game scoreless at halftime.

According to GOAL, neither Vinicius nor Rodrygo mustered a shot on target, capping off a lacklustre outing.

He was eventually substituted as the Selecao searched for a breakthrough, but it proved to be a case of much ado about nothing.

Fans rip into Vinicius after Costa Rica game

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After the disappointing draw at the SoFi stadium in California, fans singled out Real Madrid's No. 7 for criticism.

@simiafc argued that the zippy winger was anonymous all game:

"Vinicius ghosted for 90 minutes."

@half_castFCBSubscribe trolled:

"Somebody check Vinicius."

@rezam06 added:

"Vini is finished."

@acee21__ wrote:

"this is what Vini ball does to you."

@ChrisFCB_ concluded:

"Vinicius with Brazil needs to be studied. Even Ferran Torres is better than him in international matches."

Ronaldinho to boycott Brazil's Copa matches

In a previous publication, Sports Brief reported that legendary Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho has announced he will not watch his national team's matches in the upcoming 2024 Copa America in the United States.

The 2005 Ballon d'Or winner expressed his intention to boycott Brazil's games, describing them as "perhaps one of the worst teams in recent years."