Champions League: Vinicius sets Kaka’s record

Vinicius Junior continues to write his legend in Real Madrid’s jersey. On Tuesday night, at Benfica’s pitch, the Brazilian international scored the only goal of the first leg of the Champions League round of 16, providing the Merengues with a valuable 1-0 win ahead of the return in Spain.

But beyond the sporting advantage, this achievement has symbolic significance. According to OptaJose’s data, Vinicius now totals 31 goals in the Champions League. At 25, he thus surpasses Kaká (30 goals) and becomes the second-most prolific Brazilian player in the history of the competition.

Only Neymar does better with 43 goals scored for FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. The podium of Brazilian scorers in the Champions League:

1. Neymar Jr – 43 goals
2. Vinicius Junior – 31 goals
3. Kaká – 30 goals