Vinicius Junior started the night with a reminder of his Ballon d’Or heartbreak, but ended it by reminding Manchester City why Real Madrid have such a strong record in the Champions League.
Real Madrid twice came from behind before snatching a dramatic stoppage time winner in their 3-2 play-off round first leg victory over Premier League champions City on Tuesday.
Home fans displayed a huge banner with a picture of City midfielder Rodri Hernandez holding the Ballon d’Or, which he won in October 2024 ahead of Vinicius.
Real Madrid reacted angrily, refusing to attend the ceremony.
“Stop crying your heart out” City’s banner chided the Spanish giants, giving a nod to a song of the same name by Manchester band Oasis.
However it was City who ended the night in tears after Jude Bellingham stabbed home a late winner, set up by Vinicius.
Kylian Mbappe levelled for Madrid after Erling Haaland sent them ahead, and Brahim Diaz snatched an 86th minute equaliser after the Norwegian netted his second from the penalty spot.
Vinicius and Bellingham combined for Madrid’s third in the 92nd minute, sealing another late comeback win for a side who have made a habit of them in Europe.
The City fan group who organised the banner said it was aimed at Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez.
The home fans certainly had Vinicius in their sights though. “Where’s your Ballon d’Or?” jeered supporters at the Brazilian winger.
Vinicius responded in the moment by pointing at the badge on his sleeve, the number 15 representing Real Madrid’s record number of European Cup triumphs.
