Bellingham or Vinicius: Real Madrid’s 15th UCL triumph sparks Ballon d’Or debate

Real Madrid’s unprecedented 15th UEFA Champions League win on Saturday night has reignited the debate over who deserves the next Ballon d’Or award: Jude Bellingham or Vinicius Jr.

Despite starting on the back foot against Borussia Dortmund, the Galacticos once again demonstrated their pedigree, securing a 2-0 victory at Wembley to claim the record-extending 15th title.

The breakthrough came in the 74th minute when Dani Carvajal headed in Toni Kroos’ cross. Shortly after, Bellingham and Vinicius Jr combined for the second goal, with the Brazilian finishing the attack with a precise strike.

• Real Madrid secure unprecedented 15th Champions League title

The post-match celebrations were intense, but so was the ensuing debate.

Both Bellingham and Vinicius have had standout seasons, making the choice for the Ballon d’Or more challenging.

Who is your favourite for this year’s Ballon d’Or?

A. Bellingham
B. Vinicius#3Sports pic.twitter.com/vkf3wWueRy

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) June 1, 2024

Bellingham, who transferred from Dortmund last summer, made an immediate impact at Real Madrid. He finished the Champions League campaign with four goals and five assists, while also contributing 19 goals and six assists in La Liga, earning him the Player of the Season award.

What's Bellingham doing there

— Authentic 69 (@MrAuthentic69) June 2, 2024

Vini

— Sports Dog (@SportsDog202) June 1, 2024

Vinicius Jr, on the other hand, has been equally crucial to Real Madrid’s success. He scored five goals and provided five assists in the Champions League, and ended the La Liga season with 15 goals and five assists.

If you we should be fair enough, I don’t see how you ppl dey rate Bellingham in the list of Ballon d’or winners. ..Vini Jnr deserves it and we all know.

— mhore Mhonies (@MhoniesMhore) June 1, 2024

As the debate continues, many believe the decision might ultimately hinge on their performances in upcoming international tournaments. England will compete in Euro 2024 in Germany, while Brazil aims for the Copa America title. These tournaments could provide the final piece of evidence needed to determine the rightful heir to the Ballon d’Or throne.

Vinicius

— Francis Kinas (@francis_kinas) June 2, 2024

Euros and Copa America is around the corner. It's another way to determine who wins what…

— NIKOI (@nikkotei) June 1, 2024

Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland seem to be missing in the debate as expected due to their inability to lead their team closer to the UEFA Champions League title despite their outstanding performances domestically.

The post Bellingham or Vinicius: Real Madrid’s 15th UCL triumph sparks Ballon d’Or debate first appeared on 3News.

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