Wed Feb 19 22:32:03 UTC 2025: **Real Madrid Thrash Manchester City, Mbappe’s Hat-Trick Seals Last 16 Berth**

MADRID, SPAIN – Kylian Mbappé’s sensational hat-trick powered Real Madrid to a commanding 3-1 victory over Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu, securing a 6-3 aggregate win and a place in the Champions League last 16. The reigning champions completely dominated the match, leaving Pep Guardiola’s side, missing key striker Erling Haaland, with a painful early exit from the competition.

Mbappé opened the scoring with a sublime lob over Ederson in the fourth minute, showcasing his exceptional talent. His second goal, a precise finish after a flowing team move involving Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, further highlighted Real Madrid’s attacking prowess. He completed his treble in the second half with a powerful low drive from the edge of the box.

While Nico González scored a late consolation goal for City, it did little to dampen Real Madrid’s celebrations. The match also saw injuries to City’s John Stones and the pre-match absence of Haaland due to a knock. Real Madrid, meanwhile, welcomed back key players Antonio Rudiger and Aurélien Tchouameni, contributing to their dominant display.

“We wanted to win and go through,” Mbappé stated post-match. “At home, we are very strong, and we played as a team.” His hat-trick takes his Champions League tally to seven goals in ten appearances this season, adding to his impressive 28 goals across all competitions this year.

This marks the first time in Pep Guardiola’s managerial career that one of his teams has failed to reach the Champions League round of 16. City, last year’s winners, struggled throughout the tie and now face a battle to secure a top-four Premier League finish. Real Madrid, on the other hand, remain in contention for La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League, with their next challenge being a last-16 clash against either Atlético Madrid or Bayer Leverkusen. Jude Bellingham will miss the first leg due to suspension after picking up a booking in this match.

Read More