The Champions League's influence on individual awards was diminished Monday when Manchester City’s Rodri won the Ballon d’Or player of the year award over Vinicius Junior in a ceremony organized by France Football magazine and UEFA.

It is safe to say that last time Real Madrid visited the Etihad Stadium, they left unhappy. Even though it seems like a lifetime ago, it has just been one year since Manchester City humiliated Real Madrid in the Champions League semifinals.

The Champions League quarter finals draw took place last Friday and left spectators with some interesting matchups, but it’s no surprise that all of the knockout stage games are compelling. At the end of the day, it is a competition between the best of the best.