The Brazilian has been in scintillating form, earning himself favourite status for this year's Ballon d'Or after netting 30 goals and providing 21 assists in 51 games, before Wednesday's clash.

The Ballon d'Or nominees list has been released with both Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo missing. It is the first time since 2003 that neither Messi, 37, and Ronaldo, 39, have made the nominations.