Amar Dedić, Vinicius Junior (foto: Getty Images)
Vinicius Junior scored again against Benfica but drew criticism for exaggerating contact from Amar Dedić, with footage of the fall quickly spreading across social media.
Vinicius Junior once again stood at the center of attention during Real Madrid’s Champions League clash with Benfica.
The Brazilian forward scored and helped push Madrid into the round of 16. On pure football terms, he made the difference over two legs.
Yet one moment late in the match sparked debate. In a duel with Amar Dedić, the Bosnia and Herzegovina international touched Vinicius’ face with his hand while trying to challenge for position. The contact looked minor. Vinicius reacted by dropping to the ground dramatically, holding his face.
Referee and VAR ignored the appeal. Play continued. Online clips of the incident quickly spread, with many fans accusing Vinicius of exaggerating the contact.
This pattern follows him. His pace and skill force defenders into difficult situations, but his reactions under pressure often divide opinion. For opponents, the theatrics add frustration. For supporters, they see a player who wins fouls and disrupts rhythm.
Despite the controversy, Vinicius remains central to Madrid’s attack. If he ever leaves the club, replacing his directness and output would demand a major investment.
Who is Amar Dedić?
Amar Dedić, 23, was born in Austria and chose to represent Bosnia and Herzegovina at youth level before breaking into the senior national team.
He developed at Sturm Graz before moving to RB Salzburg at 15. Loans at Liefering and Wolfsberger helped him reach Salzburg’s first team. A move to Marseille failed to produce impact, and Benfica signed him last summer for around 12 million euros.
Dedić also shared a dressing room at Salzburg with Benjamin Šeško, another rising name from the Austrian system.
On this night in Madrid, he lost several duels to Vinicius. But the most talked-about moment came from a touch that led to a fall, which many believe went too far.