Mbappé hat trick buries Man City to put Real Madrid into last 16

Real Madrid beat Manchester City 3-1 with a Kylian Mbappé hat trick on Wednesday in their Champions League playoff second leg at a raucous Santiago Bernabéu stadium, earning them a 6-3 aggregate victory and a place in the last 16. The electric atmosphere in the Spanish capital was befitting of a high-stakes encounter, with the home crowd roaring their team on from the first whistle, creating an intimidating environment for the reigning champions. As Real Madrid took control, Manchester City, a team once feared for their relentless attacking prowess, appeared bewildered and outclassed, struggling to match the tempo of their illustrious hosts.

Last year's champions will face either Bayer Leverkusen or city rivals Atlético Madrid, depending on Friday's draw, as they seek a record-extending 16th title. This latest triumph further cements Real Madrid’s reputation as the kings of European football, a team synonymous with success in the most prestigious club competition. The possibility of a Madrid derby in the next round adds another layer of excitement, with the fierce rivalry between Los Blancos and Atlético Madrid promising a thrilling contest should fate bring them together once more. On the other hand, a clash against Bayer Leverkusen would see Real Madrid facing a fresh challenge against one of Germany’s most exciting teams this season.

It was the first time in City coach Pep Guardiola's illustrious career that one of his teams in the Champions League had failed to reach the round of 16. The Catalan tactician, renowned for his meticulous approach to the game, cut a frustrated figure on the touchline as his players failed to execute his game plan. For a manager who has dominated domestic football with both Barcelona and Manchester City, this early exit marks a significant setback, raising questions about his ability to replicate past glories on the European stage. The disappointment was evident in his post-match comments, as he admitted that his side had been second best in every department and had no excuses for their lackluster display.

"It was a perfect night," Mbappé said. "It's only logical that Real Madrid advance to the last 16 of the Champions League. We are very strong at home and it's great to give joy to our fans." The French superstar’s words encapsulated the dominance of the evening, as he once again proved why he is regarded as one of the world’s most lethal forwards. His clinical finishing, electric pace, and ability to exploit defensive errors made him the undisputed star of the match, leaving City’s defenders helpless in their attempts to contain him. The hat trick not only secured Madrid’s passage to the next round but also sent a strong message to the remaining teams in the competition that Los Blancos remain the team to beat.

Madrid did not have to work too hard to subdue their sorry rivals who failed to manage a shot on target in the first half, looking a shadow of Guardiola's dominant force from past years. The contrast between this performance and the City of previous seasons was stark. The English champions, known for their intricate passing, high pressing, and tactical flexibility, looked devoid of ideas and inspiration. Their midfield, usually the heartbeat of the team, was overrun by the relentless energy of Madrid’s players, while their attack was toothless without the presence of Erling Haaland. It was a night that exposed City’s vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for reinforcements and tactical adjustments if they are to reclaim their European supremacy in the coming seasons.

Already 3-2 down after a first-leg defeat at home, City's task became even harder an hour before kickoff when they announced a starting eleven without leading striker Erling Haaland, who suffered a knee injury over the weekend. The Norwegian goal machine had been instrumental in City’s success, and his absence was keenly felt as the visitors struggled to create meaningful chances. Without Haaland’s physical presence and predatory instincts in the box, City’s attack lacked a focal point, allowing Madrid’s defenders to dictate proceedings with ease. The news of his injury had dampened City’s hopes even before a ball was kicked, and as the game unfolded, it became clear that his absence was a decisive factor in the outcome.

With City looking clueless and out of ideas, Madrid took full control of proceedings and never looked under threat. From the opening exchanges, Real Madrid’s intent was clear: they were out to dominate, to dictate the tempo, and to impose their will on the game. Led by the experience of veterans such as Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos, combined with the youthful exuberance of players like Jude Bellingham, Madrid’s midfield orchestrated wave after wave of attacks. The seamless coordination between defense and attack ensured that City were constantly on the back foot, unable to gain a foothold or establish any rhythm in their play.

Mbappé opened the scoring with Real's first attack in the fourth minute, taking advantage of another massive blunder by City's defense when captain Rúben Dias missed his header and left the French forward free to lob over the onrushing Éderson. The goal was a testament to Mbappé’s composure and intelligence, as he effortlessly capitalized on Dias’ mistake. As the ball sailed over Éderson and into the net, the Bernabéu erupted in celebration, sensing that their team was on course for another famous victory. The early goal set the tone for the rest of the match, forcing City to chase the game while allowing Madrid to dictate terms from a position of strength.

Mbappé scored again in the 33rd minute with a close-range strike after a humiliating cutback that left defender Josko Gvardiol on the floor. The move was a display of sheer technical brilliance, as Mbappé’s quick footwork and change of direction left the Croatian defender sprawling helplessly. With the goal at his mercy, the Frenchman made no mistake, slotting the ball past Éderson with ease. At 2-0, the writing was on the wall for City, who were now staring at an insurmountable deficit. The frustration was palpable among the visitors, as their defensive frailties were once again ruthlessly exposed by Madrid’s relentless attacking play.

Real kept piling on the pressure -- and wasting chances -- against Pep Guardiola's struggling team. Mbappé scored his third in the 61st minute with a left-footed strike from the edge of the box just inside Éderson's right post. The hat trick was a moment of pure class, as Mbappé showcased his ability to score from anywhere on the pitch. The precision and power of his shot left Éderson with no chance, further emphasizing the gulf in quality between the two sides on the night. As Madrid’s players celebrated, City’s hopes of a miraculous comeback were effectively extinguished, with Guardiola left to ponder how his once-dominant team had been so thoroughly dismantled.

Manchester City scored a consolation goal at the death with Nico Gonzalez converting a rebound after Omar Marmoush's free kick bounced off the crossbar, but it did little to tarnish a fantastic night for the Spaniards. The goal, coming in the dying moments of the match, was met with muted celebrations from the City players, who knew that their European campaign had come to an end. For Real Madrid, however, it was a night of jubilation, as they marched on in their quest for yet another Champions League triumph. The final whistle brought scenes of ecstasy at the Bernabéu, with the home fans reveling in their team’s emphatic victory.

As the dust settles on this memorable encounter, the result serves as a reminder of Real Madrid’s enduring dominance in the Champions League. While Manchester City must regroup and reassess, Los Blancos will look ahead with confidence, knowing that they possess the talent, experience, and winning mentality to go all the way once again. With Mbappé in scintillating form and the team firing on all cylinders, Real Madrid have once again proven why they are the standard-bearers of European football.