The last time Real achieved this feat was on 14/9/2002, in a 4-1 victory over Osasuna at the Bernabeu stadium. In that match, Ivan Helguera scored two goals, while Raul Gonzalez and Guti each contributed one goal.

At that time, the core of the royal club comprised Spanish players, including celebrated names like Iker Casillas, Michel Salgado, Fernando Hierro, Helguera, Guti, and Raul. There were even moments during the match when 7 Spanish players were on the field simultaneously.

Left: Guti, Helguera, and Salgado celebrate a goal in 2002. Right: Gonzalo and Asencio celebrate in 2026. *Marca / EFE*

Yesterday's match against Betis on 4/1 unfolded under entirely different circumstances. Real started only three Spanish players: Raul Asencio, Alvaro Carreras, and Gonzalo Garcia. Fran Garcia and Dani Ceballos were later substituted in, but the maximum number of Spanish players on the field at any one time was four. This marks a clear difference compared to the predominantly domestic squad of the early 2000s, reflecting the increasing globalization of Real and modern football.

In yesterday's 5-1 victory over Betis, all five goals for Real were scored by players who came through the club's academy. Gonzalo Garcia achieved a hat-trick, while Raul Asencio and Fran Garcia completed the goal fest.

This is the first time in 37 years that Real has had a match where five goals were scored by academy graduates. In 1989, Real defeated Zaragoza 7-2 with goals from Michel, Emilio Butragueno, Sanchis, and two goals from Martin Vazquez. The remaining two goals were scored by Hugo Sanchez, who was not an academy graduate.

"It is a special statistic when all five goals are scored by academy players", coach Xabi Alonso said after the match. "Gonzalo had a dream match: playing at the Bernabeu, his first season with the first team, and scoring a hat-trick. I am truly satisfied with his work ethic and spirit. He is a prime example of a player who has come through the Real academy".

Coach Xabi Alonso shakes hands as Vinicius is substituted during Real's 5-1 victory over Betis on matchday 18 of La Liga, at the Bernabeu stadium, Madrid, Spain, on 4/1/2026. *AP*

Vinicius also made an impact in the first half, constantly causing havoc on the left flank and forcing Betis to substitute right-back Angel Ortiz at halftime. However, the Brazilian forward was less impactful in the second half and was booed by some fans when he left the field in the 77th minute.

"I believe Vinicius contributed significantly", Alonso said, defending his player. "He started the match well, caused the opponent to receive a card, and forced them to change their right-back. Personally, I am satisfied with Vinicius's performance".

The Spanish coach emphasized that Vinicius will play an important role in the upcoming period, especially in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atletico in Saudi Arabia on 8/1. If Real wins, they will advance to the final to face Barca or Bilbao three days later.

Hong Duy (according to Marca, ESPN)