Vinícius Júnior sends video and invitation to legless Sudanese boy

In Khartoum, Zaher, a thirteen‑year‑old Sudanese boy who lost his legs in a drone attack, received an unexpected gesture from Vinícius Júnior, Real Madrid forward, who sent him a video of support and an invitation to attend a match of the white team.

The video includes his best wishes for Zaher to play football again and the invitation to experience a Real Madrid match at the stadium. Vinícius hopes the gesture will restore his enthusiasm for the sport.

Zaher lost his legs two years ago in the same attack and dreams of playing again thanks to the prostheses he uses. The young man remains hopeful of regaining the joy of the game.

The message via the BBC

In a report by the British broadcaster BBC, Zaher said his favourite footballer is Vinícius Júnior and that he longs to meet him someday. The boy's story caught the attention of the international media.

Through Real Madrid, the BBC contacted the player, who responded with a video message addressed to the young Sudanese. The club facilitated communication between them.

They have told me your story. I know how difficult these last months have been for you. I hope you can make good use of your prostheses, play football again and find happiness. You deserve it. I would like you to come to a Real Madrid match and spend the day together

Zaher replied emotionally: “Tell him I love him, that his message has made me very happy.” The boy expressed his gratitude for the support received.

Zaher’s mother, Habibah, was with him when the attack occurred in 2024 in the capital, Khartoum, and described the scene with blood everywhere, wondering why they had cut off his legs. Her testimony highlighted the brutality of the bombing.

After the account, Zaher and his mother moved to Cairo, where the boy underwent surgery and had the necessary prostheses implanted. Habibah said that although it was almost impossible to make him smile before, now she sees her son laughing and showing great self‑confidence.