Kylian Mbappe's absence was meant to result in a dissapointing night for Real Madrid against Manchester City. That certainly wasn't the case as Alvaro Arbeloa's men pulled out their best performance of the season and romped to a 3-0 win.
The French forward is sidelined with a knee sprain and unlike the Supercopa de Espana final wasn't rushed back for another crucial game. But Madrid didn't need him as they surged to an emphatic victory that puts them in full control of the Champions League last 16 tie.
Federico Valverde enjoyed a famous night in Los Merengues colors, coming up with a first-half hat-trick. Each of the Uruguayan midfielder's three goals were impressive but the third was the icing on the cake.
Mbappe in dreamland
Valverde took the ball down with an exquisite touch following a dink over a defender from Brahim Diaz. He then fired past Gianluigi Donnarumma to make it 3-0 and send the Santiago Bernabeu into ecstasy.
Mbappe watched on from the stands and his reaction to Valverde's third goal is a sight every Madridista will be happy to see. He was seen jumping with joy as Los Blancos pulled off a somewhat shocking result having been underdogs ahead of the game.
You can watch Mbappe's reaction below:
“Kylian Mbappé is jealous of his teammates”
— 10 (@Kylian) March 11, 2026
Meanwhile Mbappé: pic.twitter.com/k18vjfIhmo
The fact that Madrid not only prevailed to victory over a full-strength City side is a massive statement. But to do so without Mbappe and Jude Bellingham among other top stars is simply outstanding.
Mbappe has been Madrid's talisman this season, posting 38 goals and six assists in 33 games across competitions. He would have loved to have been on the pitch and participated in a memorable night for Arbeloa and his troops.
Will Mbappe be back for the second leg?
Mbappe could be back in action for Madrid when the second leg takes place at the Etihad next Wednesday (March 17th). If he is, it will be a massive boost and even further help Los Blancos try and reach the quarter-finals after taking such a huge lead from tonight.
Arbeloa suggested the Frenchman's recovery is going well and that he could be fit for the second leg. He said ahead of tonight's game (via AS):
“It’s about taking it day by day and seeing how it evolves. But this week has been very positive. He’s come back with great feelings and is improving every day,”
Mbappe has a remarkable record against City, bagging seven goals and one assist in seven games. He'll be eager to add to that tally should he indeed be fit to face Guardiola's side.