The Club World Cup left an image that was etched in the memory of Real Madrid fans. Vinícius Júnior was the protagonist of the victory over Salzburg (0-3), not just because of his goal.
His backheel pass to Valverde brought to mind one of the club's most iconic plays: Guti's backheel to Benzema at Riazor. Guti's own reaction to what Vinícius said was truly surprising.
Vinícius, the hero of the match
The Brazilian opened the scoring with a goal and then delivered a brilliant assist. When he passed the ball to Valverde with a subtle backheel, the stadium was left speechless. The play was so clean and spectacular that many immediately remembered the classic assist Guti gave to Benzema years ago.
Vinícius showed that he not only has speed and dribbling skills, but also vision on the field. His pass wasn't a coincidence, but the result of his talent and confidence on the field.
Guti experienced it live
The most curious thing is that Guti was commentating on the match for DAZN. When he saw Vinícius's backheel, he couldn't hide his smile. "I was saying 'you have to hit it first time,' but I didn't expect him to do that," Guti admitted live.
His fellow commentators kept reminding him of the famous play he starred in at Riazor. Guti acknowledged that Vinícius's pass was perfect. "He sees Fede Valverde very well and leaves it practically on a plate for him," he added.
Vinícius Júnior's response
After the match, Vinícius spoke about his backheel pass and his connection to Guti's style. "Yes, it was a good assist... one of the most beautiful I've given in this jersey," he said humbly.
He also explained that he hadn't seen Guti's original video, but everyone around him mentioned it once the play ended in a goal. "Everyone told me it looked a lot like Guti's," he admitted with a laugh.
The legacy of a gesture
Vinícius's play not only helped open up the match and set up Valverde for the 0-2. It also connected generations at Real Madrid, showing that some details never go out of style.
Guti, a club symbol, recognized the Brazilian's talent and his boldness in attempting such a risky pass. Meanwhile, Vinícius seems to draw inspiration from the greats who wore that jersey before him.
Looking to the future
Vinícius finished with a clear wish: "I hope I can keep going like this and that the team can play like this because that's the most important thing."
After the match, the young Brazilian not only scored and assisted, but also showed that he has a spark for memorable plays. Guti, from the broadcast, witnessed it.