Online Outrage over Brazil's Missed Penalty: Why Didn't Vini Kick It?
July 6, 2026 · Global
Brazil's penalty miss in their World Cup last-16 match against Norway sparked outrage online, questioning why Vini Jr. did not take the penalty kick.
Brazil drew 0-0 with Norway on Sunday (5) in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. However, the deadlock in New Jersey, United States, should have been resolved if Bruno Guimarães had succeeded in executing the penalty received by Matheus Cunha. After the save from the Norwegian goalkeeper, social media exploded discussing the Newcastle midfielder's choice to take the penalty. Even Vini Jr., who previously held the ball before giving it to Bruno Guimarães, also received criticism online.