Real Madrid Star Vinícius To Miss Liverpool Showdown In Champions League

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

Real Madrid’s Champions League hopes suffered a major setback as Brazilian star Vinícius Júnior has been ruled out of Wednesday’s blockbuster clash against Liverpool due to a hamstring injury.

The Spanish club confirmed the news in a statement on Monday, citing medical tests conducted earlier in the day.

“After tests conducted today, our player Vinícius Júnior has been diagnosed by Real Madrid’s medical services with a hamstring injury in his left leg,” the club said.

Reports from Spanish media indicate that the 24-year-old winger is likely to miss nearly a month of action, which would also rule him out of Real Madrid’s visit to Atalanta on December 10.

The injury comes at a critical time for both Vinícius and his club. The forward has been a key figure this season, delivering standout performances that have overshadowed even marquee signing Kylian Mbappé. In 13 La Liga games, Vinícius has netted eight goals and provided numerous assists, including a crucial one in Sunday’s 3-0 victory over Leganés.

His form has been equally lethal in Europe, with four goals in as many Champions League appearances. Vinícius was instrumental in maintaining Madrid’s attacking edge and was expected to be a major threat against Liverpool’s high-flying defense.

Real Madrid, however, are struggling to find their rhythm in the Champions League this season. The defending champions have lost two of their four group matches, including a 3-1 defeat at home to AC Milan and a narrow 1-0 loss away to Lille. They currently languish in 18th place in the expanded group stage table.

Liverpool, on the other hand, are soaring under new manager Arne Slot. The Reds lead the Premier League and the Champions League standings, making Wednesday’s clash a daunting test for the Spanish giants.