According to manager Carlo Ancelotti, Vinicius Jr. is back to his best following a strong performance that helped Real Madrid defeat Sporting Braga 2-1 in the Champions League.

The 23-year-old Brazil international, who helped Madrid maintain a three-point lead at the top of Group C by setting up England midfielder Jude Bellingham’s goal, was named man of the match.

In August, Vinicius Jr. had a hamstring injury and missed a month of play.

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“He’s back to his best. He got the goal, which was ruled out by the narrowest of margins, and he made two assists for Rodrygo and Bellingham,” Ancelotti told reporters.

“He’s back, and he’s back in form. He made the difference today.

“They (Bellingham and Vinicius Jr) work really well together with the ball and without it. We have to improve there but they’re both doing a great job.”

After 10 games and a LaLiga-leading 25 points, Real Madrid will face Barcelona on Saturday.

Madrid is just one point ahead of third-placed Barcelona.

The Los Blancos has won the Champions League a record 14 times.

“After this game, we know exactly what we need to do — everything we can to win it,” Ancelotti said.

“We have time to get ready for it. We’re heading into this incredibly important game full of excitement.”