Kylian Mbappé shined with a hat trick, leading Real Madrid to a 6-3 aggregate win over Manchester City, securing their place in the Champions League Round of 16. After a narrow first-leg lead, Real dominated the second leg, notably with City missing key player Erling Haaland. This match also marked Mbappé's first major performance in a crucial Champions League knockout tie for Madrid, illustrating his fit for the club's lofty expectations as they pursue their sixteenth title in this prestigious tournament. Meanwhile, City's struggles deepen, with just the FA Cup left in their season's hopes.
Mbappé had already played in some big games for Real Madrid... but this was his first big game. At Real Madrid... that means a Champions League knockout tie.
Mbappé's first-half performance against City was ruthlessly efficient. He needed just 14 touches to take five shots. Two of them were goals, with an xG of 0.73.
This is why he joined Madrid. Having previously experienced what can happen on a European night at this stadium, he's now on the other, happier side of the equation.
City, their miserable season continues... they now only have the FA Cup as a realistic chance of silverware as they go into Sunday's clash with Premier League leaders Liverpool.
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