Real Madrid’s hat-trick hero speaks after match-winning performance vs Real Betis: ‘A very special afternoon’ | OneFootball

Gonzalo Garcia may not have had a lot of prominence after the FIFA Club World Cup, where he shone in the summer, but he picked up right where he left off last night.

Asked to start as the team’s centre-forward in Kylian Mbappe’s absence, Garcia opened the scoring in the 20th minute and then went on to net a second-half brace to rack up a hat-trick.

His firepower, needless to say, was enough to propel Real Madrid to the three points and get the better of Real Betis. 

Gonzalo’s post-match reaction

The hat-trick hero spoke to the media after the game and began by pouring out his emotions after what was a special performance.

“It’s been a very special afternoon. I’m so happy, what a way to start the year. It’s my first hat-trick at the Bernabeu and my first goals of the year.

“I’m thrilled, and I hope these are the first of many more goals to come.”

He was then asked to pick his favourite of the three goals he scored, but the player simply did not have the heart to rank his three stunning efforts.

“I’ll take all three goals. It’s impossible to choose just one. This is my first hat-trick in front of the Madrid fans. Each goal is special, and honestly, I’m so happy.

Gonzalo Garcia scored a stunning hat-trick agianst Betis. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

“Some of the guys still haven’t signed the ball yet. I’ll have to ask for a few more signatures.

“But I’m grateful to everyone because without them, none of the goals I scored today would have been possible,” he added.

Not many players are lucky enough to receive a standing ovation at the Santiago Bernabeu, but Gonzalo’s performance on Sunday earned him that. Speaking on the same, he said,

“Immense pride. I’ve been a Madridista 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 fans is a very special moment that will stay with me forever.

“I hope there are loads more goals, loads more wins to come, and a special year for all of us,” he added.

Finally, the youngster spoke about the team’s performance as a whole and how the entire squad turned up in great form on the night.

“We came out with real intensity. We knew it was going to be a tough game—the first of the year. We started showing real ambition and had clear objectives.

“We wanted to play well and build confidence ahead of next week’s match. I think that’s what happened this evening.

“It was a convincing win that leaves a good feeling around the place. Now we’re really looking forward to the next game against Atlético,” he added.

Source: Real Madrid website