Vinicius Junior revealed he was spurred on by a banner unfurled by Manchester City fans ahead of Real Madrid’s dramatic Champions League victory.
The Brazilian was named player of the match as Real twice came from behind to beat City 3-2 in the first leg of their play-off tie, providing the assist for Jude Bellingham’s last-gasp winner at the Etihad Stadium.
Vinicius was booed throughout and as the players walked out ahead of kick-off, a huge tifo was displayed behind one of the goals.
“Stop crying your heart out” was the caption alongside a picture of Rodri and the Ballon d’Or trophy, mocking Real after they snubbed last year’s ceremony.
Vinicius had been the favourite to win football’s most prestigious individual prize for the first time, but it emerged in the build-up to the ceremony that Rodri had topped the voting and Real therefore made the decision not to send any representatives, despite winning other awards.
Jamie Carragher criticised the Man City fans for their “ridiculous” banner, but it was Vinicius who had the last laugh.
“I saw the banner from Man City fans. It motivated me even more,” he said.
“Whenever rival fans do things, it gives me more strength to play a great game.”
Vinicius has 16 goals and eight assists in all competitions so far this season and shone at the Etihad, with his manager Carlo Ancelotti agreeing that the pre-match display had a positive impact on the Brazilian.
"I don't know if has seen [the banner],” Ancelotti said.
“Watching his game, perhaps it has been a motivation for him. He has always been very dangerous."
