Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior emerged as the hero on Saturday, scoring a hat-trick to propel the Spanish giants to a resounding 4-0 victory over Osasuna in La Liga. The triumph at the Santiago Bernabeu provided a much-needed confidence boost for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, which had suffered consecutive home defeats in the league and Champions League.
Despite the absence of injured stars Kylian Mbappe, Eder Militao, and Rodrygo, Madrid dominated the match from the outset. Vinicius opened the scoring in the 34th minute, finishing off a pass from Jude Bellingham. Bellingham, who had been instrumental in Madrid’s success last season, added to the lead with a fine lob just before halftime.
Vinicius continued his impressive form in the second half, completing his hat-trick with two more goals. The first came after a long ball from goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, while the second was set up by Brahim Diaz.
Mbappe, who has struggled to find the net in recent matches, was unable to add to his tally despite playing in his preferred position on the left flank. However, Madrid’s clean sheet helped end a run of nine goals conceded in three consecutive home matches.
The victory moved Madrid to within six points of league leaders Barcelona, who face Real Sociedad on Sunday. “We won by a margin, we had a complete game in terms of work and effort,” said Madrid attacker Brahim Diaz. “Madrid always have to win and we’d suffered two consecutive defeats… The fans deserved a victory, we can still give more, we are an incredible team.”
