Just when Real Madrid look down and out they conjure up a magical performance that make the club so special. Last night's 3-0 win over Manchester City was a famous one that came against the odds.
With Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham watching on from the stands, it was the Federico Valverde show that took hold. The Uruguayan scored a sensational hat-trick in the first-half in one of the best solo displays you'll see from a player in the UEFA Champions League.
That said, Madrid's season has been full of constant twists and turns. With positives have come negatives and last night the injury curse struck once again.
Mendy injury setback
Ferland Mendy was forced off in the 47th minute with a hamstring problem. It was a frustrating way for the French left-back to end his participation given he was excellent against City.
The 29-year-old has only just returned from a lengthy spell on the sidelines. This was his second consecutive game for Los Blancos and unfortunately its ended with another injury setback.
Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa gave an update after the game and it looks as though Mendy won't be available for the trip to the Etihad next week. He said (via Madrid Universal):
"It's still early, but I think it's unlikely he'll be ready for the return leg. He needs to undergo testing."
"Thanks to him. We took a risk by including him in two consecutive matches, but he showed the level he can deliver."
Mendy will undergo tests today to determine the extent of the issue which is truly unfair on the Frenchman. His return to action has been impressive, not just last night but in a 2-1 win over Celta Vigo last Friday.
How Mendy fared vs City
Mendy was outstanding up against City's Antoine Semenyo who has been one of the Premier League's best attackers this season. He made one interception, four clearances and won three of four ground duels.
It was another excellent outing for Mendy and it begs to question where Madrid would be if he had been fit for most of the season. His recurring injury problems are a concern and are holding him back from playing a crucial role in Los Blancos' campaign.
Mendy has made just five appearances across competitions this season and might now face another spell out of action. Hopefully he is available in April when the La Liga title race heats up and his side are potentially competing in the Champions League quarter-finals.