Federico Valverde scored the first hat-trick of his career, propelling Real Madrid to a decisive 3-0 victory over Manchester City in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie. The Spanish giants seized control at the Santiago Bernabeu, leaving the Premier League side facing a significant challenge in the return fixture.
Madrid's potent counter-attacking style proved too much for City. Valverde opened the scoring in the 20th minute after being released down the right flank. He doubled the lead seven minutes later, breaking the offside trap and firing home. The hat-trick was completed in the 42nd minute with a fine volley following another swift break.
Despite City's pressure in the second half, Real Madrid had a chance to extend their lead further, but Vinicius Jr. saw his penalty saved.