1. Match Overview
Consolation Goal: Nicolás González scored a late goal for City (90+2′).
Result: Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City (6-3 on aggregate).
Competition: UEFA Champions League Knockout Play-offs, held at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu on February 20, 2025.
Hero of the Night: Kylian Mbappé scored a stunning hat-trick (4′, 33′, 61′), leading Real Madrid to a dominant victory.
- First Half – Mbappé Magic
- Early Lead (4’): Mbappé capitalized on a defensive error to lob the ball over Ederson, setting the tone for Madrid’s dominance.
- Second Goal (33’): A dazzling solo effort from Mbappé as he dribbled past defenders and slotted home.
- City’s Struggles: Manchester City struggled to create meaningful chances, while Real Madrid controlled possession and tempo.
2. Second Half – Madrid’s Dominance
- Hat-Trick Hero (61’): Mbappé sealed his third goal after a brilliant assist from Valverde, leaving City’s defense in disarray.
- Late Consolation (90+2’): González tapped in a rebound, but it was too little, too late for City.
4. Tactical Analysis
- Madrid’s Game Plan:
- Ruthless in transitions, exploiting City’s high defensive line.
- Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo stretched City’s defense, allowing Mbappé to thrive.
- Valverde‘s versatility at right-back provided defensive stability and attacking support.
- City’s Weaknesses:
- Poor defensive coordination, especially in handling Mbappé’s pace.
- Missed presence of Erling Haaland in the starting XI due to fitness concerns.
5. What’s Next?
Manchester City: Exits the Champions League and shifts focus to the FA Cup and securing top-four in the Premier League.
Real Madrid: Advances to the last-16 to face either Bayer Leverkusen or Atletico Madrid, keeping their dream of a 16th Champions League title alive.