Alonso hails Gonzalo Garcia after 'dream' Real Madrid hat-trick

Xabi Alonso hailed Gonzalo Garcia for his "dream" performance in Real Madrid's 5-1 hammering of Real Betis at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday.

The 21-year-old academy graduate scored a sensational hat-trick, the first goals of his LaLiga career, as Madrid cut the gap to leaders Barcelona back to four points.

Los Blancos head coach Alonso said Gonzalo was an example to anyone looking to make the breakthrough into the first team, and is convinced there is still plenty more to come.

"Obviously, Gonzalo played a dream match at the Bernabeu in his first year with us," Alonso said.

"He was eager to score here, and I'm very happy for him, for his work both on and off the pitch. He's a great example of a homegrown player, and I congratulate him on the game. I encourage him to keep it up.

"Today's football demands teamwork off the ball. How the forwards initiate pressure is important, whether it's with a high press or by linking up, and Gonzalo understands that very well.

"He has great acceleration, and if we add his goalscoring ability to that, along with his defensive quality, he will always help the team's performance."

Gonzalo's performance was especially important in the absence of injured superstar Kylian Mbappe.

When asked if Mbappe would be fit to face Atletico Madrid in the semi-final of the Supercopa de Espana on Tuesday, Alonso replied: "He's not ruled out, we'll wait until Tuesday."

Vinicius Jr, meanwhile, did not score or assist in the game, though Alonso maintained he was still happy with what the Brazil ace was able to produce against a well-beaten Betis.

"He contributed a lot, came on really well, drew a yellow card from his marker," he added.

"He's persistent and adds a lot to the team. I liked his performance, and he's going to be crucial. Now it's Atletico Madrid's turn and Vini is going to be very important, as always."