Vinicius Junior, who was named Man of the Match in Real Madrid’s thrilling Champions League triumph at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night, said he was motivated by the banner of Manchester City supporters. The defending European champions were confronted with a spectacular exhibition that seemed to make fun of the Brazilian by emphasising Rodri’s Ballon d’Or award.
In reference to the Oasis song that City supporters loved, the banner had a big picture of Rodri kissing his trophy and the words “Stop Crying Your Heart Out.” However, given Vinicius Junior’s current response and reaction, it is clear that the attempt to get under his skin has failed miserably.
Once again, Carlo Ancelotti’s team came out on top, as Los Blancos overcame two deficits to win 3-2 and set themselves up for success in the second leg in Madrid the following week. With an assist and five huge opportunities created, Vinicius, who missed the Ballon d’Or ceremony following his defeat in October, played a key role in the win.
How Vinicius Jr Reacted To Man City Taunts
The Brazilian did his talking on the pitch
The Etihad Stadium was filled with chants of “Where’s your Ballon d’Or?” as Man City supporters couldn’t resist taking their taunts of Vinicius Junior a step further during the midweek match. The Brazilian retaliated by massaging his arm sleeve patch, which displays Real Madrid’s 15 Champions League titles, in a gesture that was obviously intended to provoke them.
He also talked about the incident after the game. The Independent reports that the 24-year-old told Movistar:
“I noticed that the flag was there. Every time the opposing fans act in such a way, it gives me more courage to play well, and I have done so here.
Man City fans: “Where’s your Ballon d’Or?”
Vinicius:pic.twitter.com/7f0O0uhXHs
— Mikael (@MikaelMadridsta) February 11, 2025
Even though Manchester City defeated Real Madrid to win their first-ever Champions League title in the 2022–2023 season, Vinicius Junior and his teammates have frequently outperformed the English powerhouses. The Brazilian has two goals and four assists in eight encounters with Pep Guardiola’s team.
Los Blancos are now heavy favourites to go to the competition’s Round of 16 next month after this away win. According to the most recent supercomputer models, they are still among the leading candidates for the championship despite a slow start to the season.
