Real Madrid kicked off 2026 in scintillating fashion as 21-year-old Gonzalo García netted a spectacular hat-trick to lead a 5-1 rout of Real Betis. Filling the void left by the injured Kylian Mbappé, the academy graduate dominated the Santiago Bernabéu, ensuring Madrid stay within four points of leaders Barcelona.
García opened his account in the 20th minute, expertly escaping his marker to head home a Rodrygo free-kick at the far post. He doubled the lead early in the second half, deftly controlling a pass with his chest before unleashing a clinical volley from the edge of the area.
“He is a fantastic example of what it means to be a Real Madrid academy graduate,” coach Xabi Alonso remarked after the whistle. Alonso praised the youngster’s “unbelievable attitude,” noting that García’s tireless work ethic behind the scenes was justly rewarded on the big stage.
After Raúl Asencio headed in a third and Cucho Hernández pulled one back for Betis, García secured his treble in the 82nd minute with a cheeky heel flick. He was substituted to a rapturous standing ovation, making way for Fran García to complete the five-goal haul in stoppage time.
This convincing victory provides a timely boost for Alonso’s men as they head to Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup. Following a turbulent run before the winter break, Madrid now travel to Jeddah with renewed momentum to face crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid this Thursday.