Real Madrid secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League knockout stages, advancing to the last 16 with an aggregate score of 6-3. Kylian Mbappé’s impressive hat-trick propelled Los Blancos to their third win over Manchester City in the last four seasons.

The match got off to a strong start for Real Madrid, with Mbappé scoring his first goal in just four minutes. Raúl Asencio’s long ball was misjudged by Rúben Dias, allowing Mbappé to lift the ball over Ederson. This early goal gave Real Madrid breathing room, and they continued to dominate the match.

Mbappé’s second goal came in the 33rd minute, courtesy of a clever touch that sent Joško Gvardiol flying. He then buried the ball inside Ederson’s near post, securing a 2-0 lead for Real Madrid. The Frenchman completed his hat-trick in style, cutting inside Phil Foden and guiding in a left-footed finish from the edge of the area.

Manchester City struggled to create scoring opportunities, particularly in the absence of Erling Haaland. Real Madrid, on the other hand, looked likely to score throughout the match. Vinícius Júnior tested Ederson with a curling effort, but it was Mbappé’s hat-trick that stole the show.

In stoppage time, Manchester City managed to score a consolation goal. Omar Marmoush’s free-kick struck the bar and rebounded for Nico González to tap in. However, it was too little, too late, as Real Madrid had already secured a convincing win.

Real Madrid’s victory sets up a potential last-16 clash with either Atlético Madrid or Bayer Leverkusen. Having won the competition last season, Real Madrid will be looking to repeat their success. However, the road ahead will be challenging, and they will need to maintain their strong form to advance further in the tournament.

The Los Blancos will also have the opportunity to focus on their La Liga fixture which comes up against Girona on Sunday.