Real Madrid swept aside Real Betis 5-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday, with Gonzalo Garcia netting a hat-trick to cut Barcelona’s lead at the top of LaLiga to four points. The result marked Madrid’s third straight league win and underlined their resurgence after a dip in form in November.
Match Highlight
With Kylian Mbappe sidelined by a knee injury, 21-year-old Gonzalo Garcia seized his opportunity. He opened the scoring in the 20th minute, rising unmarked at the far post to head home a precise cross from Rodrygo. Madrid dominated possession and territory throughout the first half, keeping Betis pinned back.
The hosts carried their authority into the second half. Garcia doubled his tally early after the restart, chesting down Federico Valverde’s long pass before firing a volley beyond Alvaro Valles. Moments later, Raul Asencio made it 3-0, heading in another Rodrygo delivery as Betis struggled to cope with Madrid’s movement and intensity.
Betis briefly showed signs of a comeback midway through the second half. Cucho Hernandez pulled one back in the 66th minute, shortly after Giovani Lo Celso struck the post. Thibaut Courtois was then forced into sharp saves to deny Rodrigo Riquelme and Antony, ensuring Madrid retained control.
Reaction & Table
Garcia completed his hat-trick in the 82nd minute with a clever back-heel finish from Arda Guler’s assist, earning a standing ovation. Fran Garcia added a fifth in stoppage time.
It’s a great way to start the year. Three special goals, my first hat-trick here. I just try to make the most of every minute.
Garcia said
The win keeps Real Madrid firmly in the title race as the season gathers pace.
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