Real Madrid Player Ratings Against Manchester City: Captain’s Performance from Hat-trick Hero Fede Valverde

Real Madrid clinched a dominant 3-0 win against Manchester City in the initial leg of their Champions League Round of 16 clash on Wednesday. The match saw Fede Valverde deliver a stunning performance, netting all three goals.

Thibaut Courtois – 7.5

Courtois wasn't heavily tested with shots on goal but commanded his penalty area effectively during set-pieces. He notably made a vital foot save to thwart Nico O’Reilly in the second half.

Trent Alexander-Arnold – 6

Alexander-Arnold faced initial difficulties against Jeremy Doku but grew into the game, displaying increased confidence.

Antonio Rudiger – 8

Rudiger once again emerged victorious from his personal duel with Erling Haaland. His performance was consistently solid over the full 90 minutes, highlighted by a critical intervention that denied Manchester City's striker a goal in the second half.

Dean Huijsen – 7

Starting ahead of Raul Asencio, Huijsen overcame a shaky initial 20 minutes to deliver a defensively sound display.

Ferland Mendy – 6.5

Mendy featured only in the first half, where he performed competently against the wide attacking presence of Antoine Semenyo.

Aurelien Tchouameni – 7

Manchester City found it challenging to penetrate through the midfield, largely due to Tchouameni's commanding presence.

Thiago Pitarch – 6

Pitarch occasionally appeared somewhat disconnected and seemed to offer Manchester City avenues back into the game, particularly in the later stages.

Arda Guler – 6.5

Guler delivered a balanced performance, diligently contributing defensively while also seeking to make an impact in attack.

Fede Valverde – 9.5

An absolutely sensational display from the Uruguayan midfielder. Valverde not only bagged his first career hat-trick with all three goals but his overall contribution was outstanding.

Brahim Diaz – 7

Diaz provided the assist for Valverde's third goal, a standout moment in an otherwise strong performance from the Moroccan international.

Vinicius Junior – 7

Vinicius Junior consistently posed a threat going forward. He had an opportunity to extend his scoring streak from the penalty spot, but his shot was saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Substitutes

Fran Garcia – 6.5

Despite recent scrutiny over his defensive capabilities, Garcia put in a solid performance during the second half.

Eduardo Camavinga – 6

Camavinga occasionally lacked his usual sharpness, which is understandable given his return to action after several weeks sidelined.

Franco Mastantuono – 6

Displayed a strong work ethic.

Manuel Angel – 6

The young midfielder made his debut in the Champions League.

Dani Carvajal – N/A

Real Madrid's captain gained valuable minutes on the pitch.