Real Madrid has taken a significant step towards qualifying for the Champions League quarter-finals, after decisively defeating Manchester City (3-0) in the first leg of their Round of 16 clash. Federico Valverde emerged as the standout performer, netting a sensational hat-trick in the first half.
Alvaro Arbeloa’s side delivered a dominant display, leaving Pep Guardiola’s Citizens, including a subdued Erling Haaland, with no answers. Manchester City now faces an immense challenge in the return leg next week, requiring an exceptional comeback to keep their hopes alive in the competition.
