Despite Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland all finding the net in a star-studded Champions League quarterfinal clash, it was Vinicius Jr. who left the Etihad as the name on everybody’s lips.
The Brazilian winger silenced critics and fueled Real Madrid’s comeback in a dramatic 3-2 win over Manchester City, proving once again why he deserved more Ballon d’Or recognition.
Pre-Match Drama: Man City Fans Mock Vini Jr.’s Ballon d’Or Snub
Tensions were already high leading into the match after Real Madrid protested Vinicius Jr.’s Ballon d’Or snub, choosing not to attend the ceremony after Rodri was awarded the trophy instead.
🔥 Man City fans seized the moment, unveiling a banner before kickoff featuring Rodri kissing the Ballon d’Or with the words “Stop Crying Your Heart Out”, a direct reference to Oasis’ iconic hit.
Vini Jr. Responds in Style: “They Gave Me More Strength”
Rather than letting the taunts get under his skin, Vinicius used the mockery as fuel, delivering a Man of the Match performance with two assists.
📊 Vini Jr.’s Champions League Knockout Round Record:
✔ 13 assists (more than Lionel Messi, despite playing 50 fewer matches)
After the game, he told Movistar (via BBC Sport):
“Whenever the opposing fans do things like that, they give me more strength to have a great game, and here I have done it.”
And he wasn’t lying.
How Real Madrid Stunned Man City Late
🔹 Trailing 2-1 in the dying minutes, Los Blancos produced yet another European masterclass.
🔹 Vinicius assisted twice, orchestrating a stunning comeback.
🔹 Real Madrid takes a crucial 3-2 lead back to the Santiago Bernabéu.
With one foot in the semifinals, Madrid once again proved why they are Champions League royalty.
Final Take: Vini Jr. Gets the Last Laugh
✔ Ballon d’Or snub? No problem.
✔ Man City’s banner? Extra motivation.
✔ Champions League magic? Just another night for Vinicius Jr.
With his explosive pace, playmaking ability, and relentless drive, Vini Jr. continues to make his case as one of the world’s very best.
Can Real Madrid finish the job at the Bernabéu, or will Man City find a way back?
One thing’s for sure—Vinicius Jr. will be ready for the moment.