Manchester City Fans Taunt Vinícius Júnior With Rodri Ballon d'Or Banner – But Real Madrid Have the Last Laugh in Thrilling 3-2 Win

Manchester City fans displayed a striking banner featuring Rodri holding the Ballon d’Or trophy ahead of their UEFA Champions League encounter with Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium.

The display, which included the phrase "Stop crying your heart out," appeared to be aimed at Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior, who had been a strong contender for the prestigious award.

Despite the show of support for Rodri, Real Madrid delivered a thrilling performance, coming from behind to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory. Erling Haaland put City ahead in the 19th minute, but Kylian Mbappé leveled for Real Madrid in the second half. Haaland restored City's lead from the penalty spot, yet Real Madrid responded with late goals from Brahim Díaz and Jude Bellingham to claim the win.

Vinícius Júnior, who had been the target of the banner, played a key role in his team’s comeback and later addressed the situation, stating, "I see the banner, but whenever the opposing fans do things, it gives me more strength to play a great game."

The result gives Real Madrid a one-goal advantage heading into the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, where Manchester City will need a strong performance to overturn the deficit.