Real Madrid 3-2 Leganés
With the match heading into extra time at 2-2, substitute Gonzalo García stepped up in the dying moments to score his first goal for Real Madrid, securing their spot in the Copa del Rey semi-finals.
Despite an early two-goal lead, Madrid couldn’t hold on, allowing Leganés to claw their way back. Just when extra time seemed inevitable, García’s late header sealed the victory for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
Madrid secured the 3-2 win away from home in Wednesday night’s quarter-final clash, overcoming a spirited Leganés side. Luka Modrić and Endrick gave Madrid the advantage before Juan Cruz scored twice to level the game. But in the 93rd minute, 20-year-old García became the hero with a dramatic winner.
A Tough Battle for Madrid
Missing key stars Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham due to minor injuries, Madrid also left Vinícius Júnior on the bench for the first half. Leganés, sitting 16th in La Liga, started strong, testing goalkeeper Andriy Lunin with multiple early shots.
Madrid’s first real chance came in the 13th minute when Brahim Díaz set up Endrick, but the young Brazilian’s weak shot was easily saved.
The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when Modrić fired in a precise shot after a well-placed pass from Rodrygo. It was the veteran midfielder’s second goal in three Copa del Rey matches this season.
Madrid doubled their lead in the 25th minute when Endrick pounced on a loose ball inside the box and slotted it home. The 18-year-old now has three goals in three cup games.
Leganés Fight Back
Leganés pulled one back just before halftime when a penalty was awarded for a handball by young defender Jacobo Ramón. Juan Cruz calmly converted from the spot to make it 2-1.
Vinícius came on after the break and nearly restored Madrid’s two-goal lead in the 50th minute, but his angled shot was saved. Minutes later, Endrick squandered two good chances.
Leganés equalized in the 59th minute when Cruz capitalized on a deflection, leaving Lunin helpless.
Madrid pushed for a winner, with Vinícius hitting the post and Brahim Díaz striking the crossbar in the 75th minute.
García’s Moment of Glory
In the final moments, with extra time looming, Madrid found their winner. In the 93rd minute, Brahim Díaz delivered a perfect cross from the right, and García—who had come on for Endrick in the 82nd minute—rose to head the ball into the net, sparking wild celebrations.
Madrid now shift their focus to Saturday’s La Liga showdown against Atlético Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu as they continue their push for silverware.
