Vinicius Jr Confident Real Madrid Will Win 16th Champions League Title, Highlights Key Challenge Against Inter

Vinicius Jr has boldly declared that Real Madrid will claim their 16th Champions League title this season despite recent setbacks. The Brazilian forward is convinced the European crown will return to the Santiago Bernabeu after consecutive quarter-final exits in previous campaigns.

After last winning the trophy in 2024, the club has struggled against tough opponents such as Arsenal and Bayern Munich, falling short of their own high expectations. Speaking to the club’s official media, Vinicius stated, “Hopefully the 16th will come. We’re ready for that. It’s our competition. We haven’t done well in it for the last two years. Our first objective is to finish among the top eight. We’re always excited about the Champions League. This season will be different from the last two Champions League campaigns and we’re going to win it.”

Upcoming Tactical Battle Against Inter

The campaign kicks off with a major showdown on Tuesday at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Real Madrid will host Italian champions Inter Milan. Vinicius, unbeaten in four previous Champions League encounters with Inter—also providing one assist—is aware of the challenge ahead, especially considering Inter’s defensive approach.

He commented, “Whenever the Champions League arrives, it feels different. We’re ready for this match against a great team that will demand a lot from us. Inter are a very physically strong team. They defend with five at the back and that’s something that usually causes us difficulties, but the manager has prepared us for it. We have some absentees, which makes things more difficult, but we’ll all go out there strongly and hopefully we can create that wonderful connection with the fans in these matches.”

Recent Domestic Setback Won't Shake Confidence

Real Madrid comes into the European stage following a disappointing domestic loss to Real Betis, their first defeat this season. Despite that, Vinicius, aged 26, who has scored once and assisted twice in four appearances this campaign, stays optimistic about the team's form and focus.

He said, “We’re starting the season off brilliantly, despite our loss in the last game. We played well, created plenty of chances, and that’s the most important thing. We need to stay focused on leading Real Madrid to the top, as we always want.”

Building a Legacy at the Bernabeu

Beyond the immediate challenges, Vinicius reflected on his rising status within the club. Having scored in two separate Champions League finals—in 2022 against Liverpool and in 2024 versus Borussia Dortmund—the winger knows the significance of those moments in the club’s history.

He shared, “They’re the two most important goals of my life. They’re something that will remain in history. Many players score goals, but very few score in finals. To do it at the biggest club in the world is something neither the fans nor I will ever forget. It was a dream. I never imagined I’d score all these goals or play here for all these years. At 26 years old, to be one of the leaders of the world’s most important club means so much to me and my family.”

• Match Details: Real Madrid vs Inter
• Date & Time: 8 September 2026, 21:00
• Competition: Champions League