BALLON D'OR
Bellingham ‘celebrates’ Vinicius’ Brazil’s Copa América exit
Brazil’s elimination from Copa América coupled with England progressing to the semifinals of Euro 2024 edges the man from Stourbridge towards the Ballon d’Or.
There may have been a considerable twist in the race to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or on Saturday night as just a number of hours separated England advancing to the semifinals of Euro 2024 on penalty kicks with Brazil waving goodbye to the 2024 Copa America as they fell to Uruguay also via the dreaded shootout. For many, both Real Madrid stars Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior remain favorites for the award, but their progression in their respective continental tournaments could tip the balance.
Vinicius, who started as a favorite ahead of both summer tournaments would have been the unquestionable winner if he had also managed to secure a Copa América winners medal. With the Seleçao falling in the quarterfinals against Uruguay, in a game where the winger was suspended, Brazil’s elimination now opens the door for other contenders with Bellingham the other clear favourite.
After a dazzling debut season in the Real Madrid shirt, Bellingham has yet to hit the same heights with an England team who have played a stodgy brand of football but despite failing to sparkle, find themselves in a gifted position now as the face Netherlands in Wednesday’s second semi-final in Dortmund. Bellingham’s one moment of brilliance did come in Round of 16 clash against Slovakia when his stunning acrobating equaliser saw the game go to extra time with a Harry Kane goal ensuring that the ‘Three Lions’ advance.
The 21-year-old blew hot and cold in the quarter-final against Switzerland but kept a cool head in the penalty shoot out slotting past Swiss stopper Sommer with Trent Alexander-Arnold ultimately bagging the decisive spot kick to ensure that Gareth Southgate’s side progress.
With Brazil and Germany’s elimination which marked the end of the line for both Vini and Toni Kross, the other player fancied for the Ballon d’Or, the ball is very much in Bellingham and England’s court as just two games now separate the team from bagging what would be their first ever European Championship triumph.