Neymar Jr.’s classy tribute to fellow Brazilian Vinicius Jr. after his brace for Santos FC is going viral.
In Santos FC’s 2-1 win over Vasco da Gama, Neymar scored twice and then performed a familiar dance at the corner flag that has become associated with Vinicius Jr.
The gesture was widely shared on social media as a show of solidarity with his compatriot. Neymar later explained the meaning behind it in a memorable post-match moment that is now circulating widely online.
Neymar Jr. explains dance tribute to Vinicius Jr.
Responding after the game, Neymar Jr. said: “The little dance was for Vini Jr. I told him when he scored the 1st goal there in Portugal.
“If you score a goal at the Bernabeu, do the same celebration. Because if I score a goal, I’ll do the same.”
The dance references a goal celebration by Vinicius Jr. during Real Madrid’s Champions League tie with Benfica, which became controversial after it drew jeers and alleged racist abuse.
Why Neymar Jr’s gesture is resonating
Vinicius Jr.’s celebration at the Bernabeu was followed by a sequence that saw tension and alleged abuse erupt during Real Madrid’s match in Lisbon, with supporters and players becoming involved and the incident prompting official scrutiny.
By replicating the same dance at Santos, Neymar not only celebrated his impact on the pitch but also made a public show of support for his national team-mate amid ongoing conversations about respect, reaction to celebrations, and how players handle adversity.
Fans around the world have praised the gesture as a sign of unity between two of Brazil’s biggest stars.
Moreover, it showed that Neymar wanted to fulfill his promise because Vini Jr. indeed did the same celebration during Real Madrid’s 2-1 win at the Bernabeu
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
