Vinicius Jr. was named Man of the Match for his exceptional performance, which was essential in Real Madrid’s victory over Manchester City.
The evening was not without controversy as the Brazilian forward was at the center of a clash with the home supporters at the Etihad Stadium.
Using a banner to taunt him, City supporters made sure to remind him that he had not received the Ballon d’Or.
Man City fans held up a poster during the game that showed Rodri kissing the Ballon d’Or trophy.
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A reference to the Oasis song Stop Crying Your Heart Out was included with the picture, along with a jab at Real Madrid by calling them “crybabies.”
Given that Rodri had finished ahead of Vinicius in the final Ballon d’Or rankings, it was obvious that the 24-year-old was the target of the gesture.
They tried to rattle him, but Vinicius was unmoved. Later, when discussing the situation, he acknowledged that opposing players are frequently provoked by rival fans.
According to Madrid Universal, the Brazil international maintained that such acts only strengthened his resolve to achieve even better rather than having an impact on him.
“I see the banner, but whenever the opposing fans do things, it gives me more strength to play a great game,” said the Real Madrid forward as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
“I try not to do anything, but they know our history and everything we can do in this competition,” he added.
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