Wed Feb 19 23:19:07 UTC 2025: ## Real Madrid Crushes Manchester City, Mbappé Hat-Trick Sends Them to Champions League Last 16

**Madrid, Spain** – Real Madrid emphatically dispatched Manchester City 3-0 at the Bernabéu, securing a 5-2 aggregate victory and a place in the Champions League Round of 16. Kylian Mbappé stole the show with a sensational hat-trick, showcasing his electrifying pace and skill that left the City defense in tatters.

The match was a stark contrast between the two teams. Real Madrid displayed a cohesive and dominant performance, highlighted by their fluid attacking play and resolute defense. Manchester City, hampered by injuries and seemingly lacking motivation, offered little resistance. Their toothless display led to ironic cheers from the home crowd as Madrid cruised to victory.

Mbappé’s first goal saw him skillfully outmaneuver City’s defense, showcasing his exceptional technique. His second, a curler from outside the box, demonstrated his power and precision. The final goal capped off his hat-trick, leaving City’s Gvardiol in his wake.

While City manager Pep Guardiola conceded that Real Madrid were the better team, he expressed disappointment with his team’s performance, noting their inability to cope with Madrid’s physicality and rhythm. He acknowledged that City are not currently at the level needed to compete at the highest level of European football.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti praised his team’s defensive compactness and attacking prowess, highlighting the interplay between Rodrygo, Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr. He acknowledged City remained in the game but ultimately his side was the superior team. The only downside to the night for Real Madrid was a yellow card for Bellingham, ruling him out of the first leg of the next round.

Jude Bellingham, despite the win, lamented Haaland’s absence but praised his teammates, particularly Mbappé and Valverde for the fluid team performance.

The match underscored the gulf in class between the two teams on the night. Manchester City’s heavy January spending seemingly failed to address underlying issues, leaving them vulnerable and reliant on star player Erling Haaland, who missed the game due to injury.

Real Madrid will now face either Atlético Madrid or Bayer Leverkusen in the last 16.

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