Vinicius Jr delivered an impressive hat-trick as Real Madrid cruised to a 4-0 victory over Osasuna, though the match was marked by a potentially serious knee injury to Eder Militao.
The Brazilian defender fell to the ground in pain after appearing to twist his right knee during a corner, eventually being stretchered off around the 30th minute, with 21-year-old Raul Asencio stepping in for his Real Madrid debut.
Vinicius’ goals paved the way for Madrid to break a two-game losing streak. He opened the scoring by cutting in from the left and driving the ball past Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera into the far corner.
Jude Bellingham added his first goal of the season, deftly chipping over Herrera after a superb long ball from Asencio in defense.
Vinicius struck again an hour into the game, capitalizing on a precise ball upfield from Real keeper Andriy Lunin, rounding Herrera and slotting it home.
Substitute Brahim Diaz stole the ball off Enzo Boyomo and slide it across to Vinicius who finished with ease for his hat-trick.
Despite Real Madrid’s commanding win, their injury woes deepened as Rodrygo exited the match after 20 minutes, and Lucas Vazquez was unable to return after halftime.
Right-back Dani Carvajal is sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained last month, and center-back David Alaba remains out due to a knee issue.
This victory positions second-placed Real Madrid six points behind leaders Barcelona, though Hansi Flick’s squad has an opportunity to extend their lead when they face Real Sociedad on Sunday at 20:00 GMT.