In a thrilling UEFA Champions League encounter on February 19, 2025, Kylian Mbappé delivered a masterclass performance, netting a hat-trick to propel Real Madrid to a 3-1 victory over Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu. This decisive win secured Real Madrid’s spot in the tournament’s last 16, overturning a first-leg deficit and culminating in a 6-3 aggregate triumph.
Match Overview
The match commenced with high intensity, as both teams sought to establish early dominance. Manchester City, holding a narrow advantage from the first leg, aimed to control the tempo, but it was Real Madrid who struck first. In the 23rd minute, Mbappé showcased his clinical finishing, converting a precise pass from Jude Bellingham to open the scoring. This goal not only leveled the aggregate but also shifted momentum firmly in favor of the hosts.
As the first half progressed, Manchester City endeavored to respond, with Kevin De Bruyne orchestrating attacks from midfield. However, Real Madrid’s defense remained resolute, effectively neutralizing Erling Haaland and limiting City’s clear-cut opportunities.
The second half saw an invigorated Manchester City side pressing for an equalizer. Their efforts were rewarded in the 57th minute when De Bruyne delivered a pinpoint cross that Haaland headed past Thibaut Courtois, bringing the scoreline to 1-1. This goal reignited the contest, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
Undeterred, Real Madrid intensified their offensive endeavors. Mbappé, demonstrating his exceptional skill and composure, restored the lead in the 74th minute with a powerful strike from the edge of the box. The Frenchman’s brilliance was on full display again in the 85th minute when he completed his hat-trick, deftly maneuvering past City’s defense to slot the ball into the net. This third goal not only sealed the match but also underscored Mbappé’s pivotal role in Real Madrid’s European campaign.
Player Celebrations and Reactions
Mbappé’s celebrations paid homage to football legends. After his first goal, he emulated Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic celebration, a nod to the former Real Madrid star. Following his hat-trick, Mbappé mirrored Lionel Messi’s famous gesture by holding up three fingers, symbolizing his trio of goals. These tributes highlighted Mbappé’s respect for his predecessors while marking his own burgeoning legacy.
Post-match, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti lauded Mbappé’s performance, suggesting that the young forward has the potential to reach the heights of Ronaldo. Ancelotti emphasized the collective effort, stating, “Many players make a difference, but Kylian was outstanding tonight.”
Manchester City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, acknowledged his team’s shortcomings, admitting that they were second-best on the night. He praised Real Madrid’s execution and Mbappé’s clinical finishing, noting the need for reflection and improvement in future European fixtures.
Historical Context and Impact
This hat-trick places Mbappé among an elite group of players who have achieved such a feat in the Champions League knockout stages. It also reinforces Real Madrid’s storied history in the competition, as they advance with aspirations of securing their 16th European title. citeturn0search23
For Manchester City, this defeat marks a premature exit from the tournament, prompting introspection and potential strategic adjustments as they continue to seek elusive European glory.
Sources
- The Guardian – City’s zombified figures are haunted by ghosts of themselves in Bernabéu exit
- Cadena SER – Vinicius se acuerda del tifo del Balón de Oro tras eliminar al Manchester City en Champions: “Okay, okay, okay!!!!!!”
- AS – Mbappé allana el camino