Vinicius Jr goal controversially disallowed as Brazil edge past Scotland

Vinicius Jr saw his 22nd-minute goal wrongly disallowed by VAR as Brazil beat Scotland 2-0 in their 2026 FIBA World Cup opener on 25 June in the United States.

What happened in the 22nd minute?

Brazil’s first-half pressure told when Vinicius Jr latched onto a defensive error from Scotland and slotted past the goalkeeper. The goal stood for barely a minute before VAR intervened, ruling the strike out for contact between Vinicius Jr and Scotland defender Liam Hendry. The call ignited furious protests from Carlo Ancelotti on the bench and left Brazil’s players stunned.

The incident unfolded after Scotland lost possession in midfield. Vinicius Jr burst into the box, rounded the keeper, and fired into an empty net. Replays showed Hendry’s ankle brushing Vinicius Jr’s boot as the ball crossed the line. The referee, reviewing the footage, judged the contact sufficient to disallow the goal.

Why the VAR call sparked outrage

Ancelotti erupted from the dugout, gesturing toward the officials and shouting at the fourth official. Vinicius Jr himself walked away shaking his head, while Brazil’s coaching staff crowded around the referee. The furore highlighted how marginal contact in high-speed phases can flip a game’s momentum.

The episode also underlined VAR’s growing influence. Even light touches now face scrutiny in slow motion, a shift that has divided players, coaches, and fans. Ancelotti’s reaction mirrored widespread frustration at interpretations that diverge from live perception.

The bigger picture for Brazil and Vinicius Jr

Brazil held on to claim all three points despite the controversy. The win keeps them in contention in Group D, though the disallowed goal left a sour taste. Vinicius Jr now faces a tougher test against a sterner opponent next.

The match also carried off-field intrigue after a Brazilian seer claimed aliens would kidnap Neymar and Vinicius Jr during the fixture. The prophecy-aired on social media-fueled memes and headlines, blending sport with spectacle. Yet the VAR controversy remained the lasting talking point.

What comes next for Vinicius Jr?

Brazil move on to their next group-stage clash knowing one clear chance was lost through no fault of their own. Vinicius Jr will hope for better fortune-and sharper officiating-as the tournament rolls on.

The 25 June result leaves Brazil top of Group D on three points. Vinicius Jr’s next appearance could define whether the controversy fades or fuels his push for more goals.