Vinícius Júnior Surpasses Neymar

Vinícius Júnior stellar performance against Manchester City has allowed the winger to achieve a Champions League milestone, surpassing the records of renowned Brazilian players Neymar and Kaká.

Although Vinícius Júnior did not score in Real Madrid's thrilling 3–2 comeback victory over Manchester City, he played a crucial role by assisting two goals in the last eight minutes of the match, securing his team's first-ever win at the Etihad. His strike set up Brahim Díaz's equalizer, while his pass to Jude Bellingham clinched the win in the 92nd minute.

At just 24 years old, Vinícius Júnior now holds the record for the most goal contributions (24) by a Brazilian player in Champions League knockout history. Previously, Neymar and Kaká dominated the record books with 22 contributions, but the Real Madrid winger has now claimed the top spot.

Vinícius Júnior still has the opportunity to further etch his name in Champions League knockout stage history this season. He is only three assists away from breaking Cristiano Ronaldo's all-time record of 15 assists in the knockout stage.

If Real Madrid reaches the Champions League final, Vinícius Júnior will only need to score once to join an exclusive group of players who have netted three or more goals in Champions League finals. Currently, only Cristiano Ronaldo (4) and Gareth Bale (3) have achieved this feat.

However, before he contemplates these milestones, Vinícius Júnior must first aid Real Madrid in overcoming Manchester City in the second leg of their knockout phase playoff on February 19.