Vinícius Complains After Brazil’s Poor Copa América Debut
Vinícius Júnior, forward for Real Madrid and star of the Brazilian national team, admitted they need to step up their game after a 0-0 draw against Costa Rica in their Copa América debut in the U.S., and complained about the small field dimensions.
"No excuses, but the pitch definitely bothers us. The quality of the fields in the Euro Cup is completely different from the ones here. Plus, this year they made the fields smaller to make it even harder for us," Vini said in the mixed zone at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
The former Flamengo player pointed out that the first match in these tournaments is always "very complicated" and "even more so" on a different field, originally designed for American football, and against a team that defends "very well" like Costa Rica.
"They put all their players inside the box... Every time I play with the national team, I have three or four players marking me," he complained.
However, Vinícius admitted they need to improve for the next two games against Paraguay and Colombia, the other teams in Group D.
"We know we have to get better. I also know what I can improve, evolve, and do for our team and our country," he said.
He asked the fans for patience, noting that there is "a new coach and new players" on the team.
"We're taking it step by step. I'm sure we'll play much better in the next game because now we understand how the competition is going to be, how the fields, referees, and players are," he added.
Despite everything, he highlighted the quick ball recovery and the fact that Costa Rica didn't pose any danger in the rival area as positive aspects.
"We need to improve and keep working to achieve great things regardless of the circumstances. It's going to be a very tough Copa América," said the São Gonçalo player, who had a lackluster performance until he was substituted by Endrick in the 70' minute due to a tactical decision.
