Manchester City’s Champions League journey came to an abrupt end after a masterclass in finishing from Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé.
The French superstar delivered a stunning hat-trick, propelling the defending champions to a 3-1 second-leg victory on Wednesday, securing a commanding 6-3 aggregate win.
With Erling Haaland sidelined due to injury, City struggled under the lights of the newly revamped Bernabéu. Their lack of attacking firepower left them vulnerable against a ruthless Madrid side, inspired by Mbappé’s brilliance.
Despite a late consolation goal from Nico González, following an Omar Marmoush free-kick that struck the crossbar, the result had long been decided.
Mbappé was at his clinical best, opening the scoring in the fourth minute before adding two more either side of halftime. His sharp finishing and intelligent movement left City’s defense in disarray.
This marks City’s earliest Champions League exit since the 2012-13 season, adding to what has been a frustrating campaign for Pep Guardiola’s side.
From Madrid’s perspective, this emphatic victory sends a strong message to the rest of Europe. Despite their early-season inconsistencies, Los Blancos remain formidable contenders for a record-extending 16th Champions League title.
City’s problems started before kickoff, with Haaland unable to feature from the start. Despite Guardiola’s reassurances, the Norwegian striker was still struggling with the knee issue that saw him limp off in their weekend win over Newcastle.
With key stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish also starting on the bench, City relied on Marmoush to provide the firepower. However, the task became even tougher when Madrid struck early.
A long ball from Federico Valverde led to a costly slip by Rúben Dias, allowing Mbappé to lob Ederson with composure. Minutes later, City’s night got worse as John Stones limped off injured, forcing an early substitution.
Sensing their opportunity, Madrid pressed forward relentlessly. Jude Bellingham headed wide, while Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, and Mbappé kept City’s defense under constant pressure.
Mbappé’s second goal came in the 33rd minute after a dazzling move involving all four of Madrid’s attacking stars. A delicate touch wrong-footed two City defenders before he slotted home at the near post.
With the tie effectively settled, Madrid played with confidence, almost toying with City at times. Rodrygo and Mbappé both tested Ederson before the Frenchman completed his hat-trick with a powerful strike from distance after a series of step-overs.
As the Bernabéu erupted in applause, Mbappé capped off his night with a sensational run to set up Vinícius Jr., whose shot was blocked. The hat-trick hero was then substituted to a standing ovation with 12 minutes left.
City’s fans had little to cheer, aside from a sarcastic celebration when substitute Mateo Kovačić managed a late attempt on goal.
Their only real moment of joy came deep into stoppage time when González tapped in after Marmoush’s free-kick struck the bar.
