Vinícius’ numbers are turning heads at the World Cup

The physical data released by FIFA from the World Cup group stage has revealed a surprising trend: Vinícius is showing far more defensive commitment with Brazil than he typically has with Real Madrid. While his distance covered per game is similar to the average he posted in Qatar (10.1 kilometers against Scotland and Morocco, slightly less against Haiti), the statistic in which he has made the biggest leap is defensive pressures.

Vinicius piles on the pressure against Scotland

It was clear to see against Scotland. His relentless pressing of the opposition buildup forced countless mistakes. Two of them led to goals, although one was later disallowed. Vinícius is pressing the opposition more aggressively than ever when Brazil looks to win the ball back high up the field.

He ranks among the top 30 players at the World Cup in defensive pressures, with 92 such actions, comfortably ahead of several of the tournament’s biggest attacking stars. Mbappé sits 48th with 77, Messi is 104th with 48, Haaland 107th with 47, Cristiano Ronaldo 124th with 42, and Lamine Yamal 198th with just 18.

The Ancelotti effect on Vinicius

There is little doubt that Vinícius’ defensive commitment increases when Ancelotti is on the sideline. Under the Italian coach, he has rediscovered both his defensive intensity and his attacking spark. Few managers, if any, have been able to get as much out of him as Ancelotti has.

Vinícius has responded with a defensive work rate that he likely didn’t show under Xabi Alonso or Álvaro Arbeloa at Real Madrid this year. When that level of effort is there, everything changes, because with the ball at his feet he becomes virtually unstoppable, as he has once again demonstrated at this World Cup, where he has already scored four goals.

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