Why Vinícius Júnior hugged Vincent Kompany at halftime during Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich
The FC Bayern coach said it was his first time meeting the Brazilian
MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 07: Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final First Leg match between Real Madrid CF and FC Bayern München at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on April 07, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Alvaro Medranda/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images The UEFA Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich was a hard fought affair, with both sides pushing their limits. Despite this, there was a moment of camaraderie between Vinícius Júnior and Vincent Kompany near the end of halftime.
Just before the start of the second half, the Brazilian rushed over to the sideline to meet the FC Bayern coach. The two high-fived and hugged briefly, before Viní returned to his team for kickoff. As Kompany confirmed after the game, it was his first time meeting the Brazilian.
So why the hug and high-five? It has to do with the incident that occurred in the first leg of the Champions League playoffs, where Vinícius accused Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni of racist abuse. José Mourinho defended his player in the media after the game, which drew harsh criticism from Kompany at the time.
Kompany’s response was widely publicized as an ideal response to racism in the game and was deeply supportive of Vinícius Júnior and what he went through. The Brazilian was simply acknowledging the gesture. “This is the first time I’ve met him [Viní],” said Kompany after full time (via @iMiaSanMia ).