Vinicius Jr explains why he didn't take penalty vs Norway at 2026 World Cup

Vinicius Junior said he did not take the penalty against Norway in the 2026 World Cup last‑16 match because coach Carlo Ancelotti had already chosen Bruno Guimaraes to take it. Vinicius said he was never selfish and never wanted to be the tournament’s top scorer, adding that Guimaraes is a better penalty taker. Guimaraes’ effort was saved by Norway’s goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, and Erling Haaland scored twice in the second half to send Norway into the quarter‑finals, ending Brazil’s run.

The decision highlights how team hierarchy and coach trust can affect high‑stakes moments, even when a star player is willing to step up. For Nigerian fans following the tournament, it shows how tactical choices can overturn individual brilliance and affect a team’s fate.

If you were the coach, would you stick with your designated penalty taker after a missed kick, or would you give the ball to your star player in a must‑win situation?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/06/2026-world-cup-why-i-didnt-play-penalty-against-norway-vinicius-jr/