Real Madrid only managed a draw at Real Betis in La Liga. After Bellingham’s opening goal, everything seemed to be going according to plan – until Aitor Ruibal scored. In the end, an ex-Madrilenean almost became the match-winner
Real coach Carlo Ancelotti made two changes after the 2-0 win against Granada, with Vazquez coming on for the injured Carvajal and Modric replacing Joselu (bench). Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini once again opted for ex-King Isco (2013-2022) at number ten
Although the Blancos traveled to Sevilla with five wins in a row and 13 unbeaten games behind them, it was clear that Betis would certainly not be a walkover. Betis had drawn three of their previous five matches without conceding a goal.
Real Madrid controlled the early stages and, above all, the midfield, but then it was mostly over on the way forward. Rodrygo was the most conspicuous player in the early stages, but was unable to break through. At the other end, Isco laid off for ex-Munich man Roca, who didn’t really test Lunin (3rd).
Brahim Diaz’s goal doesn’t count – Ayoze tests Lunin
Other than that, there wasn’t much to see in the penalty areas. Brahim Diaz’s goal caused the biggest outcry, but it was disallowed for offside (17′).
The hosts had the best opportunity of an otherwise uneventful first half in the 32nd minute, but Lunin, who again played instead of Kepa, made a strong save from Ayoze (32′).
The second half started just as tired as the first – but then came Bellingham: The Englishman’s pass from outside the box was initiated by himself, then Brahim Diaz spooned the ball superbly into the penalty area. Bellingham ran through, took the ball perfectly and slotted home to take the lead (53′).
The Whites now seemed to have everything under control, but were then shocked: Aitor Ruibal was left unchallenged 20 meters from goal and fired the ball into the far corner at full stretch (66′).
Blancos disappoint offensively – Isco heads against the post
So it was back to square one – and even if Real Madrid did not look shocked, time was slowly running out and the big goal was still a long time coming. And it was a long time coming – so long, in fact, that referee Cesar Soto Grado blew the final whistle as 90 minutes and stoppage time expired. And the Whites could even be happy, as ex-Madrilenean Isco, of all people, headed the ball against the post in stoppage time (90.+1).
Real Madrid thus dropped two points at Benito Villamarin and failed to impress in their dress rehearsal ahead of the final Champions League matchday. Girona could therefore overtake the Whites on this matchday. Real Betis drew for the eighth time this season on matchday 16
On Tuesday (9pm), Real face Union Berlin in a Champions League clash, while Betis take on Glasgow Rangers in the Europa League on Thursday (9pm).
