The day after the red-black team's emphatic qualification for the next stage of the Copa Sudamericana, after beating the Chilean team Palestino 5-0, Vinicius Jr. appeared at the Victorino Chermont Press Room, at Ninho do Urubu, to give a press conference. Alongside Felipe Vizeu, he recalled the milestone in his career experienced on the night of last Wednesday (09).

The rout had a special flavor for the red-and-black revelation. Besides participating in another great triumph wearing the Sacred Mantle, the "Boy from the Nest" scored his first goal for the professional team, becoming the youngest athlete to score in a competition organized by CONMEBOL.

"I'm very happy with yesterday's goal. I dedicate it to all my teammates, who always help me in my daily life. Also to coach Zé Ricardo, who helped me a lot and always said that, at the right time, the goal would come," he celebrated, recalling the entire play until the ball ended up in the back of the net. "I was very happy that, in the first play of the game, I played the ball to Berrío and received it back for me to score," he added.

At just 17 years old, Vinicius is viewed with the affection of a younger brother, both by the club's fans and his teammates. The number 20 commented on being the squad's favorite. "It's relaxed, the group jokes around a lot. I'm always with the Ninho Boys, all together at training camps and on trips. Since I arrived here, everyone has given me confidence, asking me to join in, like I did in the youth academy. I can only thank all my teammates and the coaching staff," he said.

The number 22 expressed his gratitude to everyone who cheered for him to score, especially his family and friends, with whom he celebrated after the match. "After the game, we went out to celebrate, everyone was very happy. I received many messages from my friends and loved ones," he celebrated, also recalling the outpouring of joy from the fans present at Ilha do Urubu. "Everyone celebrated as if it were a championship final. I was very happy with the recognition from the Flamengo fans," he concluded.

Before speaking to reporters, Vinicius participated in activities led by interim coach Jayme de Almeida at Field 4 of Ninho do Urubu. The training session marked the beginning of preparations for the match against Atlético-MG, a Brazilian Championship match. At the Independência Stadium, the Minas Gerais club will host the Mais Querido, a match that will kick off at 16 p.m.