Vinicius Junior, the Brazilian national team winger, revealed the truth about not stepping up to take the penalty kick missed by Bruno Guimarães during the match against Norway, confirming that the decision was a technical one by coach Carlo Ancelotti, according to what was reported by the Brazilian newspaper "Globo".
Vinicius explained that Ancelotti had predetermined the identity of the penalty taker, saying: "The coach's decision was for Bruno Guimarães to take the penalty, as he decides before the match who will execute it, and Bruno was chosen."
He added: "I have never been a selfish player, and my goal was not to become the top scorer of the tournament. Bruno takes penalties better than I do, and that's why the coach chose him."
The Real Madrid star responded to the criticism he faced after not taking the penalty, saying: "Some may think I shirked responsibility, but that never happened."
He concluded by saying, "When the coach chooses me, I take the penalties, as I do with Real Madrid, and I have never refused to take responsibility at any time."
Norwegian goalkeeper Orjan Nyland saved a penalty kick taken by Brazilian player Bruno Guimarães in the match held as part of the round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup, before Haaland scored the winning goals against Brazil.
