JYNEWS, Leganes vs Real Madrid : In a match that defied expectations, Real Madrid snatched a dramatic 3-2 victory over Leganes in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals, courtesy of a stoppage-time header by 20-year-old academy star Gonzalo García. The game, played at Leganes’ Estadio Municipal de Butarque on February 5, 2025, had everything—early dominance, a shocking comeback, and a fairytale ending that cemented García’s name in Real Madrid folklore.
Match Overview: A Rollercoaster of Emotions
Real Madrid entered this Copa del Rey clash as heavy favorites but fielded a heavily rotated squad ahead of critical fixtures against Atletico Madrid and Manchester City. With key players like Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior rested, manager Carlo Ancelotti handed starts to youngsters Jacobo Ramón (20) and Raúl Asencio (19) in defense. Leganes, sitting just above La Liga’s relegation zone, smelled blood.The game began chaotically. Leganes’ Diego García and Óscar Rodríguez tested Madrid’s third-choice goalkeeper Andriy Lunin within the first five minutes, forcing two stunning saves. But Madrid soon settled, with veteran Luka Modrić breaking the deadlock in the 18th minute. The 39-year-old midfielder latched onto Rodrygo’s pass and coolly slotted home. Seven minutes later, 18-year-old sensation Endrick doubled the lead, tapping in a rebound after Leganes goalkeeper Juan Soriano parried Brahim Díaz’s shot.Just as Madrid fans relaxed, disaster struck. Jacobo Ramón, making his senior debut, conceded a penalty with a clumsy handball. Juan Cruz converted from the spot in the 39th minute. After halftime, Cruz struck again—his deflected shot in the 59th minute looping over Lunin to level the score.With the game headed to extra time, substitute Gonzalo García rose highest to meet Brahim Díaz’s cross in the 93rd minute, sealing a 3-2 win and sending Madrid into the semifinals.
Key Performers: Heroes and Heartbreakers
Gonzalo García: The Unlikely Hero
The 20-year-old striker, typically relegated to Real Madrid’s B team, wrote himself into history with his first senior goal. García’s towering header showcased his aerial prowess and ice-cold composure under pressure. Post-match, García admitted, “This is the moment I’ve dreamed of since joining La Fábrica [Madrid’s academy]. I’m just glad I could help the team.”
Juan Cruz: Leganes’ Two-Goal Maverick
The Leganes forward dragged his team back into contention almost single-handedly. His penalty was impeccably placed, and his second goal—a deflected effort—highlighted his persistence. Cruz’s performance epitomized Leganes’ fighting spirit, earning him a standing ovation from home fans.
Federico Valverde: The Silent Engine
Though not directly involved in goals, Valverde’s midfield dominance kept Madrid afloat. His tireless pressing and precise passing (92% accuracy) disrupted Leganes’ rhythm and allowed Modrić to venture forward. Ancelotti praised him post-match: “Fede is the glue—he does the dirty work so others can shine.”
Endrick: The Teenage Prodigy
The Brazilian wonderkid continued his meteoric rise, scoring his fifth goal in three starts. His movement terrorized Leganes’ backline, and at 18, he’s already drawing comparisons to Ronaldo Nazário.
Tactical Breakdown: Youth vs. Experience
Ancelotti’s gamble on youth nearly backfired. With Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba injured, Jacobo Ramón and Asencio struggled against Leganes’ press. Ramón’s handball penalty exposed his inexperience, while Asencio’s positioning was occasionally suspect.Leganes manager Borja Jiménez exploited these weaknesses, instructing his wingers to target Madrid’s young full-backs. However, Madrid’s midfield trio—Modrić, Valverde, and Aurélien Tchouaméni—controlled possession (63%) and limited Leganes to counterattacks.Key stats:
- Shots: Madrid 18 (7 on target) vs. Leganes 14 (5 on target)
- Possession: Madrid 63% vs. Leganes 37%
- Pass Accuracy: Madrid 89% vs. Leganes 78%
Post-Match Fallout: What’s Next for Both Teams?
For Madrid, the win sets up a Copa del Rey semifinal clash, but concerns linger over their defensive depth. Ancelotti admitted, “We have to improve defensively, but I’m proud of the youngsters.”Leganes, meanwhile, exit the tournament with heads held high. Captain Rubén Pardo stated, “We proved we can compete with the best. Now, we focus on staying in La Liga.”
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Leganes vs Real Madrid Q&A
Q: Why did Ancelotti rest key players like Mbappé and Bellingham?
A: With a Madrid derby (vs. Atletico) and Champions League clash (vs. Manchester City) looming, Ancelotti prioritized fitness. The Copa del Rey was deemed a chance to rotate.
Q: How did García go from B-team obscurity to match-winner?
A: García has 12 goals in 18 games for Madrid’s reserves this season. His physicality and aerial ability earned him a bench role, and he seized his chance brilliantly.
Q: What’s next for Real Madrid’s injured defenders?
A: Militão and Alaba are expected back in March, but Carvajal (ACL) is out for the season. Ancelotti may dip into the transfer market for cover.
: Can Leganes avoid relegation?
A: Sitting 16th in La Liga, survival is possible. Their recent wins over Barcelona and Atletico prove they can upset anyone.
Q: How crucial is Valverde to Madrid’s system?
A: The Uruguayan is indispensable. His energy and versatility allow Madrid to balance attack and defense, especially in big games.
Conclusion: A Night of Drama and Destiny
Real Madrid’s narrow escape against Leganes encapsulated the magic of the Copa del Rey. For García, it was a career-defining moment. For Leganes, a valiant effort that fell agonizingly short. As Madrid march on in three competitions, their resilience—and reliance on youth—will be tested like never before.One thing’s certain: when the stakes are highest, Real Madrid always finds a hero. This time, it was a 20-year-old from the academy. Who’s next?