Real Madrid delivered a stunning performance in the Champions League play-off, eliminating Manchester City with a 3-1 victory in the second leg—and 6-3 on aggregate—thanks to a mesmerizing hat-trick from Kylian Mbappe.

From the very start, Mbappe proved to be the standout performer, a player known for rising to the occasion in big matches. Already famous for his hat-trick against Barcelona at Camp Nou and his three goals in the 2022 World Cup final, the French forward added another dazzling chapter to his career on February 19 at the Bernabeu. All three of his strikes were beautifully executed, leaving City’s defense struggling despite their best efforts.

It wasn’t long before the Bernabeu erupted in applause. When Mbappe was substituted in the 78th minute to make way for Brahim Diaz, tens of thousands of fans stood and cheered his unforgettable display—a performance that marked his 20th career hat-trick in 492 matches, tallying 359 goals and 142 assists. “The adaptation period is over, and now it’s time to decide matches,” he declared after the game, underscoring his newfound influence at Real.

While Mbappe’s brilliance shone brightly, Manchester City disappointed. Known for their ball control, City appeared listless at the Bernabeu and struggled to keep possession. Their woes were compounded when, just before kick-off, Norwegian striker Erling Haaland failed to recover in time to start, leaving City without one of their key attackers. Pep Guardiola’s side, who normally can weather a slow start, were ultimately unable to overturn the deficit—marking their first exit from the Champions League since the 2012-2013 season.

Real Madrid’s attacking fluidity was on full display, with Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Mbappe interchanging positions to exploit spaces near the penalty area. The visitors opened the scoring early on when a long pass from defender Raul Asencio set off a chain of events: after Ruben Dias’s header went wide, Mbappe flicked the ball over goalkeeper Ederson at his very first touch. Guardiola’s frustration was evident as the two-goal cushion quickly materialized.

Real then extended their lead with a second goal that showcased the impeccable chemistry of their attacking trio. Vinicius drifted to the right to receive a penetrating pass from Jude Bellingham before switching play to Rodrygo. Despite the pass being slightly out of reach, Rodrygo managed to thread the ball through to Mbappe, who raced in from the left, cut inside past Josko Gvardiol, and slotted the ball into the near post. In both of these opening goals, Mbappe celebrated with his signature hand gesture—a subtle nod to his trademark flair and a pointed reminder to his opponents.

His third goal, equally impressive, came when he received the ball on the right at the edge of the box. With a quick shift to his left foot, Mbappe maneuvered past Phil Foden before curling a sublime shot into the far corner. The City defense appeared almost motionless, seemingly in disbelief as Mbappe made light work of his less-favored foot. “Mbappe scores his third goal as if it’s the easiest thing in the world,” commented The Guardian.

Manchester City did manage to pull a consolation goal in second-half stoppage time through new signing Nico Gonzalez, but by then the damage was done. The home crowd’s sarcastic applause reflected their resignation, knowing that time was far too short for the reigning 2023 champions to stage a comeback.

With City eliminated, Real Madrid now bolster their chances to defend their title. Looking ahead to the round of 16, Carlo Ancelotti’s men will face either Atletico Madrid or Bayer Leverkusen, depending on the outcome of Friday’s group draw.

In a match that will be remembered for Mbappe’s sublime display, Real Madrid have decisively stamped their authority in Europe, while Manchester City face a season of introspection and potential change.