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Real Madrid triumphed over Manchester City 3-1, with Kylian Mbappe`s hat-trick sealing their Champions League fate.

Real Madrid outclassed Manchester City with a decisive 3-1 victory in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff tie at the Santiago Bernabeu, securing a 6-3 aggregate win. Kylian Mbappe shone brightly, netting a hat-trick that included a stunning lob in the fourth minute and a sharp finish for the second goal, before sealing his performance with a crisp left-footed shot from the edge of the area.

Manchester City, missing star striker Erling Haaland due to fitness issues, struggled to mount a significant challenge throughout the match. Nico Gonzalez managed to score a consolation goal for City in stoppage time after Omar Marmoush`s powerful free-kick hit the crossbar. The defeat was further compounded by Jude Bellingham receiving a yellow card, which will see him miss the first leg of the last 16 for Real Madrid.

Pep Guardiola acknowledged Real Madrid`s superiority, stating, "The best team won, they deserve to be there and we don’t." Manchester City`s domestic season has also been disappointing, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, 17 points behind leaders Liverpool. Bernardo Silva expressed frustration with the season, emphasizing the need for changes to restore the club`s competitive edge.

The absence of Rodri, who has been sidelined with an ACL injury since September, has significantly impacted City`s performance. Guardiola highlighted Rodri`s importance, noting that his return would bolster the team, but cautioned against rushing his recovery. The club`s transfer strategy is under scrutiny, with recent signings like Abdukodir Khusanov and Omar Marmoush yet to make a significant impact. Manchester City is expected to reassess its squad and transfer plans in the summer to address the current slump.

Champions League
Manchester City

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