Real Betis Stuns Real Madrid With A Comeback Victory

Real Betis pulled off a remarkable comeback against Real Madrid, securing a thrilling 2-1 victory at Estadio Benito Villamarín.

The win marked only their second triumph in the last 11 home La Liga encounters against Los Blancos, adding another twist to the title race.

Real Madrid’s Strong Start

Carlo Ancelotti’s men wasted no time in asserting dominance, taking the lead just 10 minutes into the match.

A well-orchestrated attack saw Kylian Mbappé thread a precise pass to Ferland Mendy, who unselfishly set up Brahim Díaz for a simple finish.

Rodrygo almost doubled the advantage with a header that grazed the roof of the net, while Betis fans grew increasingly frustrated with referee Alejandro Hernández Hernández’s decisions. Despite Real Madrid’s control in the early stages, the hosts slowly grew into the game, determined to respond.

Betis Find Their Rhythm

The home side’s first real attempt came in the 22nd minute when Ricardo Rodríguez unleashed a long-range effort, but it failed to trouble Thibaut Courtois. Moments later, Marc Bartra fired wide from close range, followed by Jesús Rodríguez failing to capitalize on a dangerous cross from Youssouf Sabaly.

However, Betis’ growing confidence soon paid off.

In the 34th minute, Johnny Cardoso met a perfectly placed cross from Isco, powering a header past Courtois. Although the Madrid goalkeeper got a hand to the ball, the sheer force behind the effort ensured it found the net, leveling the score.

Cardoso nearly doubled his tally just before halftime when his header, deflected off Aurélien Tchouaméni, forced a spectacular save from Courtois.

Betis Take Control in the Second Half

After the break, both teams came out with intent. Cardoso and Cucho Hernández saw early efforts blocked, while Bartra put in a crucial challenge to deny Mbappé a clear chance.

The decisive moment arrived when Isco played a brilliant through ball to Jesús Rodríguez, who was brought down inside the box by Antonio Rüdiger. The referee pointed to the spot, and Isco calmly converted the penalty, sending Courtois the wrong way.

Real Madrid, now trailing, pushed forward in search of an equalizer. Arda Güler’s shot was blocked by Rodríguez shortly after coming on, and Hernández nearly sealed the victory with a shot that rolled just wide.

Madrid’s Late Push Falls Short

As the clock ticked down, Real Madrid ramped up the pressure. Brazilian wonderkid Endrick fired a shot off-target, while Vinícius Júnior’s long-range attempt was easily collected by Betis goalkeeper Adrián. Despite their late push, Los Blancos failed to find a breakthrough, handing Betis a well-earned victory.

What This Means for Both Teams

The win extends Real Betis’ impressive form, with just one defeat in their last nine La Liga matches. Their victory moved them to sixth in the standings, keeping them firmly in the race for European football.

On the other hand, Real Madrid’s struggles away from home continue. This defeat means they have now gone winless in three consecutive away league matches for the first time since May 2023.

With Barcelona still ahead and Atlético Madrid having the chance to overtake them, Ancelotti’s side faces mounting pressure to regain consistency in the title race.