The 21-year-old forward was making an unusual start in place of the league’s leading scorer, Kylian Mbappé, who is out with a left knee sprain.
García progressed through Madrid’s youth teams before making his first-team debut in November 2023. This season, Xabi Alonso has given him consistent playing time.
Alonso described García’s performance as “a dream game for him.” “Playing at the (Santiago) Bernabeu (stadium), first season with the first team, and scoring a hat trick. He wanted to score here, and I’m proud of him and his work ethic every day, whether or not he gets the opportunity to play.
He has an incredible attitude and is a shining example of what it means to be a Real Madrid academy graduate.”
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García opened the scoring in the 20th minute by heading home Rodrygo’s free kick from the far post.
He brilliantly controlled a pass with his chest before volleying home from the edge of the box to make it 2-0 in the 50th minute.
Raúl Asencio headed in Rodrygo’s corner for Madrid’s third goal, but Cucho Hernández equalized for Betis in the 66th minute.
García scored his hat-trick in the 82nd minute, turning in a pass from Arda Guler before being replaced to great ovation.
Fran García, his replacement, sealed the match in overtime.
“I’ve been a Madrid fan ever since I was a kid, and I’ve spent many years in the academy, so to come off to a standing ovation from these supporters is a very memorable memory that will stay with me forever,” Gonzalo García said. “I hope there are loads more goals, loads more wins to come, and a special year for all of us.”
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