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Captain's Cry: Vinícius Demands More as Madrid Falters at Osasuna

21 February 2026

Captain's Cry: Vinícius Demands More as Madrid Falters at Osasuna
Vinícius led Madrid’s attack as Osasuna led 1-0 from Budimir.

Vinícius Takes Charge as Madrid Falters at Osasuna

Vinícius asks teammates to push higher into the opponent's half.

The Real Madrid star, Vinícius Júnior, wore the captain's armband against Osasuna today at El Sadar in La Liga's 25th round.

In the 43rd minute, as Osasuna players circulated the ball in their own half, the Brazilian star shouted at his teammates, urging them to press the hosts aggressively to spark a quick comeback, while Madrid's players stood back with little reaction.

Osasuna had taken the lead 1-0 from a penalty, scored by Croatian veteran Ante Budimir in the 38th minute.

The referee showed a yellow card to Budimir for simulation to win a penalty, but after a VAR check, the card was awarded to Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois for the foul, rather than the Croatian.

Caption: Getty Images

Punchlines: If pressing were coffee, Madrid would be decaf. And if leadership came with a blazer, Vinícius might finally find the right button—the one that turns pressure into goals.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened when Vinícius urged higher pressing?

He called for a stronger forward press in the hosts' half to spark Madrid's comeback.

Who scored Osasuna's goal?

Ante Budimir scored from a penalty in the 38th minute.

What was the VAR decision about the penalties and bookings?

Budimir was initially booked for simulation; VAR led to a booking for Courtois instead of the Croatian.