Real Madrid striker Vinicius Jr. was in Brazil on Tuesday, but not because of some emergency international duty. Well, not on the field at least.
The rising star from Brazil was back in his native country to "re-debut" a very special jersey of sorts that the national team will wear as their second jersey at this summer's Copa America.
"Verás que um filho teu não foge à luta" #oteambrasileiro pic.twitter.com/leoZFR6SWL
— Vinicius Jr ⚡️ (@viniciusjr) April 9, 2019
The white jersey -- in stark contrast to the Selecao's iconic yellow jersey -- is an homage to the 1919 Copa America team, who won the country's first title. In that final, Brazil beat Uruguay in Rio de Janeiro with a goal by the legendary Friedenreich.
However, there is further history surrounding the white shirt and why it has been missing from the backs of Brazil greats throughout the years in international competition. Brazil were wearing a similar white jersey at the infamous Maracanazo -- where the hosts lost to Uruguay 2-1 in the World Cup final at the Maracana stadium.
That loss prompted outrage across the country and a change in kits to the yellow and green jersey that has become famous through the years since.
Nonetheless, Brazil are now set take the field in white when they host the Copa from June 14-July 7. It seems time does heal all wounds.
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