Gonzalo Garcia's Late Header Sends Real Madrid to Copa del Rey Semifinals
Real Madrid's young players shine in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Leganés, overcoming injuries and a defensive crisis.
- Real Madrid defeated Leganés 3-2 in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals with a stoppage-time winner from 20-year-old Gonzalo Garcia.
- Veteran Luka Modric and 18-year-old Endrick scored early goals to give Madrid a 2-0 lead before Leganés' Juan Cruz equalized with a penalty and a deflected second-half strike.
- Manager Carlo Ancelotti praised the contributions of young players like Garcia, Jacobo Ramón, and Raúl Asencio, who stepped up due to injuries to key defenders.
- Madrid's squad was further impacted by minor injuries to stars Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham, leading to a rotated lineup ahead of upcoming matches against Atletico Madrid and Manchester City.
- Brahim Díaz provided the decisive assist for Garcia's header, securing Madrid's spot in the semifinals, where they join Atletico Madrid, with Barcelona and Real Sociedad still to play their quarterfinal matches.