- Why Vinicius Junior Is Still Favorite Ahead Of Jude Bellingham To Win The Ballon D’or
On Sunday, Jude Bellingham reminded the world why he is currently one of the best players around. The English midfielder came in clutch for England in their round of 16 tie against Slovakia.
The Three Lions were trailing 1-0, and looked set to crash out of the Euros, but Bellingham stepped up for his country in style… literally.
The 21-year-old scored an overhead kick to level the score, before Harry Kane headed in the winner for England in extra-time.
Bellingham’s clutch goal re-ignited debates among fans on who deserves to win the 2024 Ballon D’or.
Jude Bellingham has been scoring important goals from midfield all season for Real Madrid, leading them to La Liga title, and UEFA Champions League trophy. However, the same thing can be said for Vinicius Junior who has also come to life for Brazil at the ongoing Copa America tournament.
The Brazilian has not scored a late overhead kick equalizer, but he should still remain the favorite to win the award.
Why?
In terms of stats, in 2023/24, Vinicius and Bellingham are quite close in goals and assists. With The Brazilian racking up 35 G+A and the Englishman putting up 36.
However, who has been the better player is a totally different question, because of their position and roles.
Vinicius was the soul of Real Madrid‘s attack in 2023/24. He was creating, dribbling, scoring and also leading the team.
The Brazilian carried Real Madrid through the knock-out stages of the Champion League with goal contributions and electrifying dribbling down the left hand side of Real Madrid’s attack and even centrally.
He has also continued that form for Brazil at the ongoing Copa America. Vini’s display against Paraguay is still one of the more entertaining highlight of the competition so far.
Bellingham’s performances at the Euros with England has been underwhelming but he has scored important goals. While that might sound justifiable, Bellingham’s game just doesn’t lift his team as much as Vinicius’ and that will matter when it comes to winning Ballon d’or.
