Vinícius breaks down in interview ahead of Brazil’s World Cup clash with Japan

Vinícius Júnior delivered an emotional moment during an interview on the Brazilian TV show Domingão com Huck, breaking down in tears as he spoke about his grandmother. The forward, who is spearheading Brazil’s campaign at the 2026 World Cup, couldn’t hold back his emotions after watching a touching video in which she sent him a heartfelt message.

“She’s a very special person because my father always lived far away, so my mother, my siblings, and I were always with my grandmother,” the Real Madrid star said after watching the clip. “The house was small, so I slept next to her for many days. I’m at a loss for words - she shaped my life. I know there comes a time when people have to leave, so I cherish every moment with her. They did everything possible to make my dream come true. Seeing her happy is priceless.”

“Sixth star taking time”

Turning to soccer, Vinícius acknowledged that Brazil is enduring a long wait for its sixth global title, a delay that only heightens the pressure in a country that lives and breathes the World Cup unlike any other.

“This is a generation that’s working hard to take Brazil back to the top,” he said. “That sixth star is taking time to come. We’ve learned a lot over the past few years. Many of the players were part of the last Copa América. [Brazil head coach Carlo] Ancelotti has given us freedom, calm, and hope that we can get back to the summit. Having Neymar, Casemiro, Alex Sandro, Danilo, and Marquinhos - players with so much experience - gives us the space for the younger guys to express ourselves. I’m only 25, but we’ve got a very strong group coming through with Endrick and Rayan…”

Vinícius also addressed his ongoing fight against racism: “What I achieve off the field is far more important than what I do on it, because I’m helping so many more people. Progress is slow, of course, but I hope it keeps moving forward so the next generation doesn’t have to suffer. I have a seven-year-old brother, and I hope he never experiences racism. I want to accomplish great things on the field, but also keep inspiring young Black kids who don’t have the voice that I have.”

Finally, Vinícius spoke about his outstanding run of form: “I said before the competition that I was at my best technically, physically, and mentally. I worked really hard all season to be at 100%. I didn’t have any injuries, I didn’t miss a single Real Madrid game so I could arrive fully fit. The more you work, the luckier you get.”

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