Vinicius Junior has claimed that a mocking banner by Manchester City supporters inspired him in Tuesday’s Champions League first leg play-off fixture at the Etihad.
City fans unveiled a giant banner before Tuesday night’s dramatic 3-2 defeat, depicting Rodri collecting the Ballon d’Or award, with a message reading: ‘Stop crying your heart out.’
The words were targeted at Vinicius after Madrid infamously boycotted the event in protest at the Brazilian finishing second behind Rodri.
But it was Vinicius who came out tops as he was involved in two of Madrid’s three goals.
It was his shot that was parried by Ederson on the path of former City player Brahim Diaz who scored to make it 2-2.
Then in the 92nd minute Vinicius took advantage of a mistake in the City backline and set up Jude Bellingham to slot the ball home.
“I saw the banner from Man City fans – and it motivated me even more,’ Vinicius said after the game.
“Whenever rival fans do things, it gives me more strength to play a great game.”