Vinícius Júnior said a banner from Man City fans -- backing Rodri in their Ballon d'Or dispute - helped inspire him in Real Madrid's 3-2 comeback win.

As he usually is, Vinicius Junior was one of the main protagonists for Real Madrid in their 3-2 victory over Manchester City in the first leg of their play-off round tie. The Brazilian superstar was

Manchester City's Rodri claimed the Ballon d'Or, leaving Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior in second place. On Tuesday, the two teams met in the Champions League, where the winger faced mockery from rival fans.

The Champions League play-off clash between Manchester City and Real Madrid was filled with drama and excitement. Before the match, City fans at the Etihad Stadium unfurled a massive banner reading "Stop Crying Your Heart Out",

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr says the display of a banner highlighting Rodri's Ballon d'Or win before kick-off at Manchester City motivated him even more to win the Champions League play-off first leg.

Manchester City fans taunted Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior ahead of their Champions League playoff on Tuesday by unfurling a giant banner of Rodri kissing the Ballon d'Or. The Spain midfielder was voted the best player in the world last year ahead of Madrid forward Vinicius.

Manchester City fans mocked Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior before their Champions League playoff clash on Tuesday

Vinícius Jr revealed that a pre-match banner celebrating Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win gave him extra motivation to help Real Madrid secure a dramatic 3-2 victory over Manchester City in their Champions League play-off first leg.