With Kylian Mbappe sidelined due to a knee injury, it was his replacement, Gonzalo Garcia, who stole the spotlight. Garcia opened the scoring in the 20th minute, heading home Rodrygo Goes’ free-kick at the back post. Despite the ball moving away from him, Garcia’s precise header left Betis goalkeeper Alvaro Valles with no chance, marking his first La Liga goal.
Gonzalo Garcia Continues Scoring Spree
Garcia struck again just five minutes into the second half, controlling Fede Valverde’s cross before unleashing a sensational volley from the edge of the box that sent the Bernabeu crowd into raptures.
Real Madrid extended their lead to 3-0 when Rodrygo delivered a perfectly timed corner for Raul Asencio, who scored his first goal of the season. Betis responded with Cucho Hernandez converting a brilliant assist from Aitor Ruibal, making it 3-1 and briefly putting the hosts on edge.
Gonzalo Garcia then completed his hat-trick in the 82nd minute with an exquisite backheel finish. The scoring was capped off with Fran Garcia netting the fifth for Real Madrid in the final moments after Valverde’s precise delivery.
Pressure Eases on Xabi Alonso
The convincing victory provides Xabi Alonso with a positive start to the year following a challenging 2025. Real Madrid fans now have early signs of hope for a strong 2026, and if Gonzalo Garcia maintains this form, Kylian Mbappe may face stiff competition to reclaim his starting spot.
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