Gonzalo García Hat-Trick Inspires Rout at the Bernabéu.

Real Madrid vs Real Betis 2026

Real Madrid delivered a statement performance to start 2026, thrashing Real Betis 5-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu on January 4 in La Liga matchday 18.

Young forward Gonzalo García stole the show with a brilliant hat-trick (20′, 50′, 82′), announcing himself as a star in the absence of the injured Kylian Mbappé. Raúl Asencio added the fourth in the 56th minute, while Fran García capped the scoring in stoppage time (90+3′). Betis pulled one back through C. Hernández (66′), but it was mere consolation.

Under manager Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos overcame early absences—including Mbappé (knee), Dani Carvajal, and others—to produce a clinical display. Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo provided creativity, with the team dominating possession and creating numerous chances.

The victory narrows the gap to league leaders Barcelona and builds momentum ahead of a blockbuster Madrid derby against Atlético Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final on January 8 in Saudi Arabia.

Betis, despite a strong road record earlier in the season, couldn’t match Madrid’s intensity and remain mid-table.

This perfect result sets the tone for an action-packed January for Real Madrid across multiple competitions.