Vinicius Jr Inspires Madrid's 3-2 Win Over City

Manchester City fans displayed a banner mocking Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr before their Champions League match, which backfired as Vinicius used it as motivation to help secure a 3-2 victory for Madrid. The banner, referencing Rodri's Ballon d'Or win over Vinicius with the phrase 'Stop crying your heart out,' was criticized by Jamie Carragher as 'ridiculous' and potentially jinxing City. Vinicius, who was boycotted the Ballon d'Or ceremony after his second-place finish, responded with a strong performance, assisting Jude Bellingham's late winner. The victory positions Real Madrid advantageously ahead of the second leg in Madrid. Despite City's attempts at humor, the incident highlighted the risks of antagonizing high-caliber opponents, especially when needing a decisive result in the return match.