Watch: The unseen exchange between Real Madrid forward and Villarreal keeper before the penalty

Vinicius Jr. was the star of the night as Real Madrid defeated Villarreal 3-1, with the Brazilian scoring twice to lead his team to a much-needed win. 

His second goal came from the penalty spot, and cameras caught a light-hearted yet revealing exchange between Vinicius and Villarreal goalkeeper Arnau Tenas before the spot-kick.

The moment showed the confidence of a player eager to prove himself. Before taking the penalty, Tenas questioned whether Vinicius would be the one to shoot. 

“Yes?” the goalkeeper asked. The Brazilian smiled and replied, “Yes, definitely.” 

Interestingly, Vinicius had first turned to Kylian Mbappe to check if the Frenchman wanted to take it. “Yours?” he asked, but Mbappe immediately handed him the ball and told him to go ahead.

Tenas shared a brief word with the Frenchman before the penalty. Mbappe, in response, encouraged Vinicius and gave him a pat of confidence. 

🗣️ ''¿Sí?''

Arnau Tenas y Vinicius. #DeportePluspic.twitter.com/iqdpdD9EqU

— Fútbol en Movistar Plus+ (@MovistarFutbol) October 4, 2025

When the Brazilian finally stepped up, his shot wasn’t perfect. Tenas managed to get a hand on it, but the ball still found its way into the net. 

It wasn’t about power or precision. It was about belief, and Vinicius showed plenty of that.

A performance to answer the critics

Vinicius’ brace took his season tally to five goals and four assists in just 10 appearances across La Liga and the Champions League. 

His performance against Villarreal was more than just another good game, as it was a message to his critics.

There have been recent claims that Vinicius is being overshadowed by Mbappe, but this display showed that he remains one of Madrid’s most decisive players. 

The chemistry between the two attackers continues to grow, and if this partnership keeps improving, Real Madrid could have the most dangerous attacking duo in Europe.