Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior scoring twice to secure a 5-1 aggregate victory over Manchester City, later revealing his “crying” celebration was a direct response to provocations from City fans during the previous season.
Vinicius Junior proved decisive as Real Madrid dismantled Manchester City with a 5-1 aggregate victory to reach the Champions League quarter-finals.
The Brazilian forward scored both goals at the Etihad, including a first-half penalty, before taunting the home crowd with a “crying” gesture.
The act referenced a City fan banner from last season that mocked the forward following his Ballon d’Or disappointment.
Addressing the fallout, Vinicius insisted his actions were a necessary response to past provocations rather than a mark of disrespect.
He told Movistar+: “Football is very long, and last season they provoked me, and I was able to do the celebration I felt was necessary.”
Real Madrid now prepare for a quarter-final tie against either Bayern Munich or Atalanta following their dominant display.