Leganes vs Real Madrid

Gonzalo García's Last-Minute Magic Sends Real Madrid to Semis!

Last minute, a header, and a celebration! Discover how Real Madrid clinched their spot in the Copa del Rey semi-finals!

In an electrifying clash at Butarque, Real Madrid made waves as they triumphed over Leganés with a thrilling 3-2 win in the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey. The match, played on February 5, 2025, saw the young star Gonzalo García become the hero of the night by scoring a stunning header in injury time, securing the victory for his team. Despite missing superstar Kylian Mbappe due to a prior injury, Real Madrid certainly showcased their depth and resilience, with manager Carlo Ancelotti's perfect game plan putting them ahead when they needed it most.

The tension was palpable as the two teams locked horns in front of an excited crowd, with both sides creating several opportunities. Real Madrid's determination shone through early on with crisp passing and movement, proving once again why they are a force in Spanish football. However, Leganés wasn't about to go down without a fight; they countered fiercely and made it a memorable match that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The back-and-forth battle saw Leganés equalize, but Madrid's unwavering spirit ultimately prevailed in the dying moments of the game.

Fans eagerly tuned in through RTVE and ESPN+, not wanting to miss a minute of this Copa del Rey showdown. Ancelotti, after the match, expressed confidence in his team and reflected on the referee's calls during the game, an ongoing debate that often lingers in the high-stakes world of football. This victory not only sends Madrid into the semi-finals but also builds momentum as they aim for another prestigious trophy this season.

As the dust settles, the remarkable performance by young Gonzalo García is not to be overlooked. His last-minute goal could be a defining moment in his burgeoning career, showing that Real Madrid has some serious talent waiting in the wings. With a place in the semi-finals secured, their eyes are now set on winning the illustrious Copa del Rey yet again.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Real Madrid holds the record for the most Copa del Rey titles in history? With 20 wins to their name, they have a rich history in the tournament, and this recent victory adds another chapter to their legacy!

Another interesting tidbit: Gonzalo García is not just any player; he has been fabled to work hard in training, often staying later than his teammates to hone his heading skills. His hard work is a true testament to the saying, "practice makes perfect," and it's certainly paying off!