Kylian Mbappé was the star of the night, scoring a hat-trick that led Real Madrid to a 3-1 victory in the second leg against Manchester City, securing a 6-3 aggregate win. His performance was a testament to his skill and adaptability, as he capitalized on City's defensive lapses early in the match. Mbappé's first goal came within four minutes, as he expertly lobbed the ball over City's goalkeeper, Ederson. His second goal showcased his composure and footwork, as he maneuvered past defenders before scoring. The hat-trick was completed with a precise left-footed shot, solidifying his status as a key player for Madrid [1] [2].

Manchester City faced significant challenges during their Champions League clash with Real Madrid, ultimately leading to their elimination. The absence of key players like Erling Haaland, who was sidelined due to injury, and the early departure of John Stones, further strained City's defensive capabilities. City's manager, Pep Guardiola, acknowledged the team's poor performance, stating, "After we conceded the goal in the first action we didn’t defend well, it was more and more difficult." The team's lack of cohesion and defensive lapses were evident, as Madrid exploited these weaknesses to secure their victory [3] [4].

Real Madrid's victory over Manchester City marks a significant step in their Champions League journey, as they advance to the round of 16. Despite a shaky start to the season, Madrid has shown resilience and tactical prowess, with players like Federico Valverde stepping up in crucial moments. The team's improved defense, combined with the attacking prowess of Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Rodrygo, positions them as strong contenders for the title. Carlo Ancelotti's strategic adjustments have paid off, and Madrid is now considered one of the favorites to win the competition [1] [4].