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", a reference to the famous song by British band Oasis. This was seen as a dig at Real Madrid and Vinicius Jr., who were reportedly upset after Rodri won the 2023 Ballon d’Or ahead of him.
Before the match, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti reignited the debate by stating that Rodri deserved to win the 2023 Ballon d’Or, especially after leading City to a historic treble and scoring the winning goal in the Champions League final.
Why was Rodri's Ballon d’Or win surprising?
Rodri’s triumph over Vinicius Jr for the prestigious award was a major talking point in the football world. Many had expected Vinicius to win after leading Real Madrid to a La Liga and Champions League double. However, Rodri’s unbeaten season with Manchester City, where he helped them secure a fourth consecutive Premier League title, along with anchoring Spain’s victory in the European Championship, made him the surprise winner.
Reports suggested that Real Madrid were so displeased with the outcome that they boycotted the awards ceremony upon learning that Rodri would take the prize.
Real Madrid break Manchester City heart
Vinicius Junior decided to shut down all the noise with a stoppage time assist for Jude Bellingham's to score the winning goal. Erling Haaland handed the hosts a crucial lead in the first half before Kylian Mbappe scored for Real in the 60th minute.
Haaland's 80th-minute penalty saw City regain their lead. However, Brahim Diaz and Jude Bellingham scored late on.
