Vinícius Jr surprises Sudanese boy who lost both legs in war With Real Madrid invitation

Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has surprised a 13-year-old Sudanese boy who lost both legs in the country’s civil war by sending him a personal video message and inviting him to watch a match at the Santiago Bernabéu.

According to the BBC⁠, the Brazilian international reached out to Zaher after learning about his story, which was previously reported by the broadcaster. Zaher lost both legs in a drone strike in Khartoum in 2024 while selling lentils alongside his mother, Habibah.

Following an international fundraising campaign that raised £45,000, he travelled to Cairo for surgery, rehabilitation and prosthetic legs. In his message, Vinícius said:

“You are a hard-working black man. I really hope you will make good use of your new prosthetic legs, that you return to playing football and that you find happiness. You deserve it.”

The winger also invited Zaher to attend a Real Madrid match, adding: “We can spend the day together.” Now back in Khartoum, Zaher hopes to accept the invitation.