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 forward Vinicius Jr with a banner showing Rodri clutching the Ballon d’Or during the two sides’ Champions League clash. Manchester City hosted the first leg of a heavyweight play-off tie at the Etihad Stadium as two potential tournament contenders look to preserve their place in the competition.

Manchester City fans taunted Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior ahead of their Champions League playoff by unfurling a giant banner of Rodri kissing the Ballon d’Or.

And City landed the first jab before the match started by showcasing a banner featuring Rodri kissing his Ballon d'Or trophy with the words 'Stop Crying Your Heart Out', an ode to the popular Oasis song.

Real Madrid taking on Manchester City has become a significant matchup in the Champions League, with that rivalry reignited today in the playoff first leg. The

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.

Vinicius Junior - Man City fans displayed a picture of Rodri kissing the trophy with the message ‘Stop crying your heart out’, mocking Real’s boycott of the ceremony.

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.