Madrid, Mar 12 (V7N) – Real Madrid moved a step closer to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals after securing a commanding 3–0 victory over Manchester City, thanks to a brilliant hat-trick from Federico Valverde.

The first leg of the round-of-16 clash was played at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, where Valverde delivered a standout performance to give the Spanish giants a strong advantage ahead of the return leg.

Valverde opened the scoring in the 20th minute, finishing brilliantly after receiving a long pass from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Just seven minutes later, the Uruguayan midfielder doubled Real Madrid’s lead after a pass from Vinícius Júnior.

He then completed his hat-trick in the first half with a spectacular volley, putting Real firmly in control of the match.

After the break, Vinícius Júnior had a chance to extend the lead but missed a penalty, while Manchester City’s attacking duo Erling Haaland and Bernardo Silva failed to break through Real Madrid’s solid defense.

Coached by Álvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid left the field with a convincing 3–0 victory. However, the second leg at the Etihad Stadium next Tuesday will determine which team secures a place in the Champions League last eight.

END/SMA/AJ