Vinícius Júnior criticised the pitches, referees and CONMEBOL organisers of the Copa América after putting in a man-of-the-match performance in Brazil's 4-1 win over Paraguay on Friday.
The Real Madrid forward scored twice in a convincing win at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas to leave Brazil with four points in second place in Group D, behind leaders Colombia, and on course to qualify for the quarterfinals.
“The Copa America is always difficult because of the pitches, the referees, who always play against us, and the way CONMEBOL treats people,” Vinícius said after the match. “It's always difficult, but we have to stay strong. We can only talk by winning. When we talk, CONMEBOL says we talk too much.”
ESPN has contacted CONMEBOL for comment.
Brazil made a disappointing start to the competition, drawing 0-0 with Costa Rica on Monday, with Vinícius coming under fire and questioned about his role in the team.
However, coach Dorival Junior praised the striker as “almost perfect” after his performance against Paraguay.
“Today I played a great game, in line with the level of player I am,” said Vinícius.
Paraguay's rivals were less impressed.
“[Vinícius] “He has a way of playing that is not easy for the opponent to accept,” said coach Daniel Garnero. “That's why the referee is there. The referee has to impose those limits.”
The state of the Copa America pitches (with natural grass replaced by artificial turf at six of the venues) has been a frequently discussed topic in the tournament so far.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni criticised the quality of the surface at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium after the opening match there, saying it was “not suitable for this type of player”, and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez called it “a disaster”.
On Saturday, in Group A, champion Argentina, which has already qualified for the quarter-finals, will play Peru in Miami, Florida, while Canada will play Chile.
