Gonzalo Garcia Steps Up in Mbappe’s Absence with Hat-Trick as Real Madrid Thrash Betis

January 5, 2026: Kylian Mbappe was ruled out with injury, but Gonzalo Garcia stepped up in style as Real Madrid defeated Real Betis 5-1 in La Liga. The young Spanish striker scored a brilliant hat-trick and led the line with confidence in Mbappe’s absence.

Real Madrid took the lead in the 20th minute when Garcia found the net. The hosts doubled their advantage after the break in the 50th minute, once again through Garcia, who finished with a superb volley. Just six minutes later, Raul Asensio made it 3-0 and put Madrid firmly in control.

Gonzalo Garcia leads Real Madrid to big home win

Betis briefly threatened a comeback when Cucho Hernandez pulled a goal back in the 66th minute after rounding goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. However, the hope did not last long as Real Madrid stayed calm and continued to create chances.

Rodrigo Riquelme went close for Betis when his effort hit the woodwork, but Madrid always looked the more dangerous side. The key moment came when Gonzalo Garcia completed his hat-trick with a clever backheel finish from close range, sealing a memorable performance.

Real Madrid added more shine to the scoreline in stoppage time when Fran Garcia finished neatly from a cross by Federico Valverde. The win extended Madrid’s strong recent record against Betis at home.

It was another tough afternoon for Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini, who is still searching for his first away win at this ground as an opposing coach. Betis remain sixth in the league after only their second loss in the last eight matches.

The victory helped Real Madrid close the gap on league leaders Barcelona. Madrid stay second with 45 points from 19 matches, while Barcelona lead the table with 49 points. With momentum building, Real Madrid move forward with renewed confidence as the title race begins to tighten.