Vinicius slams US pitches at Copa America in worrying sign for 2026 World Cup

Vinicius Jr. has criticized the quality of pitches and referees at the Copa America in a scathing tirade against COMNEBOL organizers following Brazil’s 4-1 win over Paraguay.

The Real Madrid winger scored twice in Friday’s match in Las Vegas to lift Brazil to four points, two behind leaders Colombia in Group D, and on course to reach the quarter-finals.

“The Copa America is always difficult because of the pitches, because of the referees – who always go against us – and because of the way CONMEBOL treats people,” the 23-year-old said after his man-of-the-match performance.

“It’s always difficult, but we have to stay strong. We can only talk by winning. If we talk, CONMEBOL says we talk too much.”

Vinicius, who has faced criticism over Brazil’s disappointing start to the Copa America, was not the only high-profile figure to voice his displeasure over the state of the pitches at the tournament, three years after the US partially hosted the 2026 World Cup.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni also complained about the quality of the pitch at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, after Lionel Messi and co. played against Canada in the Copa America season opener. Scaloni said the pitch was ‘not suitable for these types of players’.

Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez described the pitch as a “disaster”.

Vinicius, who was praised by Brazil manager Dorival Jr. for his “near-perfect” performance against Paraguay, was not remembered well by opponents after scoring a brace.

Argentina’s Lionel Scaloni also complained about the surface played on during the Copa America

‘[Vinicius] “He has a way of playing that opponents cannot easily accept,” said Paraguayan coach Daniel Garnero.

“That’s why the referee is there… the referee has to impose those limits,” he added in a dig at Copa America officials.

Brazil now face Colombia in a clash that will determine the winner of Group D, while Paraguay have already been eliminated before the final group match against Costa Rica.

Costa Rica can move on with a win against Paraguay, a loss to Brazil and a six-goal turnaround between the two to eventually score more goals than Brazil. Currently, Brazil has scored four goals. Costa Rica has not scored.