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Feb
MBAPPE HAT-TRICK SEALS REAL MADRID’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LAST 16 SPOT
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Nicolas Adekeye / 2 weeks
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- 1 min read
Kylian Mbappe’s stunning hat-trick propelled Real Madrid to a 3-1 win over Manchester City, securing a 6-3 aggregate victory and a spot in the Champions League last 16. The French superstar’s goals in the 4th, 33rd, and 61st minutes sealed the deal for the 15-time record winners, who dominated the match from start to finish. Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, on the other hand, suffered a painful early exit, failing to make a significant impact until Nico Gonzalez’s consolation goal in stoppage time. The English side’s injury woes didn’t help, with Erling Haaland missing the starting lineup due to a knee problem and John Stones forced off early in the game. “We couldn’t defend well with the movement from Mbappe, and it was more difficult,” Guardiola admitted. “The best team won, they deserved it. They were better. What we have to do is accept the reality and move forward”. Real Madrid’s victory sets up a potential last 16 clash with either Atletico Madrid or Bayer Leverkusen. With Mbappe in sensational form, the holders are looking strong contenders to claim a 16th Champions League title.