Vinicius Jr red card for hair pull in Real Madrid win
Vinicius Jr was sent off for pulling Villarreal’s Nathan Saliba’s hair, with his goal disallowed — a rare VAR double overturn [1].
Real Madrid secured a 1-0 victory over Villarreal despite playing the final stages with 10 men after Vinicius Jr was sent off for pulling the hair of opposing winger Nathan Saliba [1]. The incident occurred in the 72nd minute, moments after Vinicius had scored what would have been a crucial second goal, only for VAR to intervene and disallow the strike [2]. The video assistant referee confirmed the hair pull as a clear case of violent conduct, leading to the red card.
The decision sparked fury from both Vinicius and manager José Mourinho, who was seen sprinting down the touchline in celebration before the reversal [1]. The Brazilian winger was visibly distraught, even chasing the referee, Isidro Díaz de Mera Escuderos, before leaving the pitch.
Despite the setback, Real Madrid held firm, with summer signing Yann Diomandé scoring his first goal for the club to secure the win [2]. The Ivorian winger, who had been started ahead of Vinicius, made a significant impact in a game where Madrid struggled to create chances in the first half.
The victory keeps Real Madrid six points behind league leaders Barcelona and provisionally in third place [2]. However, the red card raises concerns over Vinicius’ availability for the upcoming Clasico on 25 October, with the referee’s report potentially determining a suspension [1].
Mourinho’s side also saw Kylian Mbappé return from a knee injury sustained during France’s international break, though he faced mixed reactions from fans, with some booing him despite being Madrid’s most dangerous attacker [2].
Referee Pablo González Fuertes defended the decision, stating the hair pull was 'very blatant' and warranted a red card, while also confirming the goal should have been disallowed [1]. Real Madrid TV expressed frustration, noting that a similar incident involving Carlos Romero against Espanyol had not resulted in a red card, according to — a claim that has not been independently confirmed.
The story was first reported by Mirror and The Guardian.
Sources
This article is based on reporting by the outlets below.
- Mirror: Jose Mourinho embarrassed and Vinicius Jr sent off in incredible Real Madrid hair pull drama
- The Guardian: Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior sent off for hair pulling in victory over Villarreal
