Real Madrid MVP reflects on magical night after hat-trick against Man City: ‘You dream of nights like this’ | OneFootball

It was a night to remember at the Santiago Bernabeu as Real Madrid produced a commanding performance against Manchester City in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 clash.

The biggest story of the match was the incredible display from Federico Valverde, who scored a sensational hat trick to lead Real Madrid to a dominant victory. 

His performance not only decided the game but also placed Los Blancos in a very strong position ahead of the second leg in Manchester.

With three goals on the night, Valverde delivered one of the best performances of his career and ensured Real Madrid took a huge step toward the quarterfinals.

Reflecting on his performance

After the final whistle, Valverde could not hide his emotions as he reflected on a night that will remain special in his career.

“Incredible. You dream of nights like this. I want to thank my teammates for giving me confidence, the coaching staff, and the fans, who support us in a difficult season,” said Valverde.

He also acknowledged that “It was one of the best games of my career. I really enjoyed myself today; it had been a long time since I enjoyed a game like this.”

Tactical plan worked

Although Manchester City had a bright start and created danger in the opening minutes, Real Madrid gradually took full control of the match.

Federico Valverde was unstoppable against Man City. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Much of that control came from the tactical preparation of Alvaro Arbeloa. According to Valverde, the team had worked on specific situations during training that eventually helped them exploit City’s pressing system.

“We had trained a lot when we took goal kicks, as they pressed man-to-man. There were spaces, and we’re fast, so it worked well.” 

He emphasised that getting into the box “Is what the coach asks of me. To get there from the second line, to attack. Today we had more players to keep the ball and I tried to attack.”

Calls for unity before Etihad clash

Beyond the impressive scoreline, the midfielder also stressed the importance of team unity during a demanding season.

Real Madrid have faced difficult moments during the campaign, but the performance against Manchester City showed a group that remains fully committed to fighting for major trophies.

“We have to treat each other like brothers, protect each other’s backs. You could see that the team is united, so we can fight for great things,” said the Uruguayan.

He warned that “We know that games in Manchester are very difficult, we have to go there as if it were a goalless draw.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo