8 moments that show Real Madrid can count on Gareth Bale

Bale's most iconic moment in a Real Madrid shirt

Gareth Bale's masterclass of a goal in the 2014 Copa Del Rey final

If you were to ask people what do you remember most about Bale at Tottenham, you'd likely hear about his single-handed demolition of Inter Milan (and Maicon). Ask the same question about his time at Real Madrid, and the answer could be few of the other moments mentioned in this list, but as an individual contribution and lasting memory, nothing beats Bale's winner in the 2014 Copa Del Rey final against Barcelona.

With Cristiano Ronaldo sidelined due to injury, Real Madrid went into the tie seemingly already at a disadvantage. The game began well enough for them with Di Maria giving them an early lead. Barcelona's young centre-back Marc Bartra would claw back a goal in the second half to put his side back level.

In the 85th minute, with most players running on reserves, Bale picked up the ball near the halfway line, close to the left touchline and charged forward. Bartra being the last man to beat he knocks the ball past him and sprints full throttle, at one point going off the pitch and then back on it to reach the ball ahead of the defender, take it infield and slot it past the keeper to complete the move and seal his name in Real Madrid history.

Some say Marc Bartra is still running.

Real Madrid have short memories, football fans don't! @GarethBale11 👊 pic.twitter.com/zyNnzaMTLY

— JD Football (@JDFootball) July 21, 2019