Real Madrid secured their place in the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League with a commanding 3-1 victory over Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu. The win, which sealed a 6-3 aggregate triumph, was powered by a stunning hat-trick from Kylian Mbappé and a late consolation goal from Nico González. The match was a showcase of Real Madrid’s dominance and tactical brilliance, leaving fans and pundits with plenty to discuss. Below, we explore three key answers and three lingering questions from the game.
One of the biggest talking points leading up to the match was Carlo Ancelotti’s defensive lineup. With Antonio Rüdiger returning from injury, there was speculation about whether Aurélien Tchouameni or Raúl Asencio would make way for the German center-back. In the end, Ancelotti opted to start Asencio alongside Rüdiger, moving Tchouameni back into his natural midfield role. This decision proved to be a masterstroke.
Asencio delivered a composed and confident performance, winning three of his four duels and completing 95% of his 38 passes. His standout moment came in the fourth minute when he played a perfectly weighted long ball over the top to Kylian Mbappé, who finished coolly to give Real Madrid an early lead. Asencio’s ability to read the game and contribute both defensively and offensively was crucial in setting the tone for the match. His performance demonstrated why Ancelotti trusted him in such a high-stakes game.
Real Madrid entered the second leg with a narrow 3-2 aggregate lead from the first leg. Many wondered how Ancelotti would approach the game, given the psychological challenge of protecting a slim advantage. However, any concerns were quickly put to rest as Real Madrid started the match with confidence and authority.
The early goal from Mbappé, courtesy of Asencio’s assist, effectively killed the tie. Manchester City, already trailing on aggregate, now faced an uphill battle. Real Madrid’s ability to control the game and dictate the tempo was a testament to their experience and composure in big moments. Ancelotti’s men showed no signs of nerves, playing with the swagger of a team that knew they were in control. The early goal allowed Real Madrid to relax and play their natural game, making it nearly impossible for City to mount a comeback.
The clash between Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé was billed as a battle of the titans, but it turned out to be a one-sided affair. Haaland, who was not “feeling good” according to Pep Guardiola, was left on the bench and did not feature in the match. Mbappé, on the other hand, delivered a performance for the ages.
The French forward scored a sensational hat-trick, his first at the Bernabéu, and was a constant threat to Manchester City’s defense. Mbappé’s movement, pace, and clinical finishing were on full display as he converted 1.27 expected goals into three actual goals. He also created two chances, registered two more shots on target, and completed both of his dribble attempts. Playing as a central striker, Mbappé was flanked by Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, who provided excellent support. City’s defense, already weakened by the early injury to John Stones, had no answer for Mbappé’s brilliance. Josko Gvardiol, in particular, had a night to forget, losing a match-high nine duels.
The atmosphere at the Santiago Bernabéu was electric, showcasing the stadium’s reputation as a fortress in European competitions. Despite the rejection of a proposed tifo, the fans created an intimidating environment that undoubtedly played a role in Real Madrid’s dominant performance. As the season progresses, the Bernabéu’s influence will be crucial, especially in the knockout stages of the Champions League.
With the next round’s first leg set to be played at home, Real Madrid will once again rely on their home advantage to gain an edge over their opponents. Potential quarter-final opponents include Arsenal, Inter Milan, Feyenoord, PSV Eindhoven, and Juventus. None of these teams will relish the prospect of facing Real Madrid under the lights at the Bernabéu, where the pressure and atmosphere can overwhelm even the most experienced sides.
Ancelotti’s midfield selection raised eyebrows before the match, but it turned out to be a stroke of genius. For the first time this season, we saw Aurélien Tchouameni and Dani Ceballos paired together in the deeper midfield roles, with Jude Bellingham operating slightly ahead. This new-look combination worked seamlessly, with Tchouameni and Ceballos controlling the game with ease.
Tchouameni, back in his preferred midfield role, won three tackles—more than any other player on the pitch—and completed 91% of his passes. His ability to break up play and distribute the ball effectively allowed Ceballos to showcase his creativity, filling the void left by Toni Kroos’ departure. While this setup may not suit every midfielder in the squad, it provided a glimpse of what could be a long-term solution for Ancelotti. The performance also highlighted the depth and versatility of Real Madrid’s midfield options.
Real Madrid’s next opponents in the Champions League will be either Atlético Madrid or Bayer Leverkusen. Both teams present unique challenges and intriguing narratives. A clash with Atlético would reignite the fierce Madrid derby, with Diego Simeone’s side known for their defensive solidity and tactical discipline. On the other hand, facing Bayer Leverkusen would pit Real Madrid against Xabi Alonso, a club legend and potential future coach.
Ancelotti will also have to contend with the absence of Jude Bellingham, who is suspended for the first leg after picking up his third yellow card of the competition. Bellingham’s absence will be a significant blow, but Real Madrid’s depth and adaptability should help them navigate this challenge. Regardless of the opponent, the next round promises to be another thrilling chapter in Real Madrid’s Champions League campaign.
Real Madrid’s 3-1 victory over Manchester City was a statement of intent. The performance showcased the team’s tactical flexibility, individual brilliance, and ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes matches. Kylian Mbappé’s hat-trick was the highlight of the night, but the contributions of players like Raúl Asencio, Aurélien Tchouameni, and Dani Ceballos were equally important.
As Real Madrid advance to the next round, questions remain about their midfield setup, the importance of the Bernabéu, and their potential opponents. However, one thing is clear: this team is built for success in the Champions League. With Carlo Ancelotti at the helm and a squad full of world-class talent, Real Madrid will be a formidable opponent for any team they face. The journey continues, and the Bernabéu faithful will be eagerly watching as their team chases yet another European crown.
