Santiago Bernabeu Crowd Sends Vinicius with Fresh Barrage of Boos - Sportingpedia - Latest Sports News From All Over the World

Key Takeaways:

Vinicius Junior was once more subjected to boos from the Santiago Bernabéu crowd during Real Madrid’s 5:1 victory against Betis
The Brazilian winger extended his goalless run to 15 matches and struggled to influence the match, creating just one chance and recording a single, off-target shot
Vinicius was substituted by Xabi Alonso in the second half, with his departure again marked by a combination of jeers and applause for teammate Rodrygo

Atmosphere at the Bernabéu

Tensions between Vinicius Junior and Real Madrid supporters continued in yesterday’s match against Betis with little sign of abatement even in 2026. The Brazilian had earlier attempted to rebuild bridges with the fanbase, posting on social media, “Let 2026 be an incredible year. Hala Madrid forever! I love you.” Nonetheless, any goodwill proved fleeting during the clash with Betis, which ended in a resounding 5:1 win for Los Blancos.

🔴 𝗩𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗨𝗦 𝗝𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗢𝗥 🇧🇷 𝗔 𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗢𝗥𝗘 𝗘́𝗧𝗘́ 𝗛𝗨𝗘́ 𝗣𝗔𝗥 𝗟𝗘 𝗕𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗔𝗕𝗘́𝗨 𝗔̀ 𝗦𝗔 𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗜𝗘 ! 🥶🏟
🗞 @Rodra10_97 pic.twitter.com/JKjblos1BB
— Vibes Foot (@VibesFoot) January 4, 2026

Initial optimism surrounded Vinicius ahead of kick-off, with barely a murmur of disapproval as his name was announced among the starting eleven – a hushed atmosphere perhaps owed to the blaring stadium music. Early in the match, Vinicius drew applause for his enthusiastic start and lively contributions, notably winning a penalty that went unawarded by Hernández Hernández.

Performance Dissected

However, after the controversial penalty decision, Vinicius’ performance began to unravel. His influence waned, punctuated by unnecessary disputes and a notable lack of attacking involvement. A particular lapse in intensity during a contest resulted directly in Betis finding the net to make it 3:1. While Real Madrid’s substantial win ultimately cast such moments into the shadows, Betis did threaten at 3:2, which could have shifted the momentum.

Statistically, Vinicius’ output highlighted his struggles – he fashioned only a single goalscoring opportunity, in stark contrast to the three created by each of Valverde, Bellingham, and Rodrygo. His lone shot failed to hit the target. Although he completed five of his eight dribbles, these efforts had little bearing on the outcome.

Substitution Signals Fan Frustration

The Bernabéu crowd’s discontent became audible once again when Xabi Alonso decided to withdraw Vinicius late in the second half, sending on Arda Güler in his place. Boos echoed around the ground as he exited, mingling with applause for Rodrygo, who departed simultaneously having contributed two assists. Vinicius’ reaction, a firm handshake with Xabi Alonso and a resigned walk to the tunnel, reflected dejection rather than the anger that had marked some previous occasions.

Ongoing Uncertainty

Vinicius now finds himself 15 matches without a goal. Such a prolonged barren stretch raises concerns both for his individual form and for the environment within the team, particularly as negotiations to extend his contract are set to recommence soon with only 18 months left on his present deal.