Endrick’s Debut Champions League Goal: Why He Chose Not to Pass to Mbappe and Vinicius Jr
Real Madrid’s 18-year-old sensation Endrick made a massive impact on his Champions League debut, scoring a stunning goal to seal a 3-1 win over Stuttgart. But what made his goal even more impressive was his decision not to pass to Kylian Mbappe or Vinicius Jr, opting instead to take on the shot himself.
In an interview, Endrick explained that he knew he had the option to pass to his teammates, but at that moment, he believed shooting was the best option. "I knew I had Kylian and Vini, but at that moment the best option was to shoot," he said.
Endrick’s confidence in his shot was rewarded, as he smashed the ball past Alexander Nubel with ease. The goal was all the more impressive considering the pressure he was under, having been brought on with just 10 minutes remaining.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was full of praise for Endrick’s bravery, saying, "He has balls! Endrick had courage. It was the last move of the game. He was convinced he’d score. He went for the most difficult solution, but it went well. In these two days, he’s shown himself to be brave, in every sense."
Endrick’s goal also made him the youngest player to ever score in the Champions League for Real Madrid, breaking a record previously held by Raul. The talented teenager has already made a huge impact on the pitch, and it’s clear that he’s got the potential to be a major star for years to come.
But what’s even more impressive about Endrick’s goal is the context. As goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois pointed out, if Endrick had missed the shot, his teammates might have been left feeling disappointed and frustrated. "If he missed, they [Vinicius and Mbappé] would have killed him," Courtois said. "But if he has the confidence to shoot, he has a super powerful shot. If he scores, everyone keeps quiet! He’s a boy with a lot of quality. It shows his personality."
Endrick’s goal was just the cherry on top of an impressive debut for Real Madrid, who are currently unbeaten and sitting top of the La Liga table. With Endrick and other young talents like him leading the way, it’s clear that Los Blancos are in good hands for the future.
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