Gonzalo Shines as Real Madrid Cruise Past Betis at the Bernabéu
So, let’s talk about what just happened at the Santiago Bernabéu, because Real Madrid’s first home game of 2026 delivered a clear message. Even without Kylian Mbappé, this team knows exactly how to respond, and the story of the night was written by a name many fans are only just getting used to saying out loud: Gonzalo García.
From the opening minutes, it felt like the match was being played almost entirely on Betis’ terms, but in the wrong way for them. Madrid took control early, pushing high, winning second balls, and constantly finding Vinicius in space. Betis were forced to sit deep, and it was clear they were struggling to deal with the pace and movement coming from the wings. The Bernabéu sensed it, and the pressure kept building.
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The breakthrough arrived in the 19th minute, and it was no accident. A dangerous set piece was delivered into the box, and Gonzalo’s movement was timed perfectly. He rose above his marker and powered a header home, giving Madrid the lead and sending a wave of relief through the stadium. It felt symbolic. In the absence of Mbappé, responsibility had been handed to the academy striker, and it was taken without hesitation.
Betis tried to respond, mostly through long-range efforts and brief moments of transition, but they never truly looked comfortable. A couple of penalty appeals flew around on both ends, adding some tension, yet Madrid’s defensive shape held firm. Courtois was rarely tested in any serious way, and the home side went into the break fully deserving their advantage.
Then came the moment that really defined the night. Early in the second half, Gonzalo produced a piece of quality that lifted everyone out of their seats. A loose ball dropped on the edge of the area, he controlled it with his chest, and without letting it hit the ground, he smashed a volley across goal. The finish was unstoppable. It was one of those goals that doesn’t need replay after replay to be appreciated. You know instantly you’ve just seen something special.
From there, the game was effectively managed rather than chased. Madrid kept the ball, Betis searched for answers that never quite appeared, and the crowd spent the final stretch enjoying a calm, controlled performance. For Xabi Alonso, it was a reassuring night. For Gonzalo, it was a statement.
Real Madrid walked away with a 2–0 win, but more importantly, they walked away with proof that even when star names are missing, new ones are ready to step forward.
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