Kylian Mbappe has single-handedly handed Real Madrid a resounding victory over Manchester City, securing their spot in the next round of the UEFA Champions League with a breathtaking hat-trick.
The French striker’s performance at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday night was nothing short of phenomenal, with his goals dismantling City’s defenses and leading Real Madrid to a 3-1 win in the playoff second leg, culminating in an aggregate score of 6-3.
Mbappe opened the scoring just four minutes into the match with a delicate chip over Ederson, setting the tempo for an evening that would be dominated by his prowess. He doubled his tally in the 33rd minute with a display of agility and skill, weaving through defenders to score. The hat-trick was completed in the 61st minute with a clinical left-footed shot, effectively killing off any hopes of a City comeback.
Despite a late consolation goal from Nico Gonzalez, which was confirmed after a VAR review, Manchester City could not salvage the tie. Real Madrid’s tactical approach under their manager outshone Pep Guardiola’s strategies, with Mbappe’s performance being the decisive factor.
This result not only advances Real Madrid in Europe’s elite competition but also tally the expectation that’s been placed on Mbappe’s growing reputation as one of football’s finest talents.
Manchester City, meanwhile, must now shift their focus back to domestic competitions, licking their wounds after this European exit.
Real Madrid will now look forward to facing either Bayer Leverkusen or Atletico Madrid in the next round.