Real Betis 1-1 Real Madrid: Bellerin’s Late Equalizer Damages Madrid’s Title Chances

Hector Bellerin’s 94th-minute equalizer secured a 1-1 draw for Real Betis against Real Madrid, leaving Barcelona on the verge of retaining their LaLiga title. Vinicius Junior had given Madrid the lead at Estadio La Cartuja de Sevilla, but Bellerin’s late strike could allow Barcelona an 11-point advantage if they defeat Getafe on Saturday.

Vinicius broke the deadlock in the 17th minute, capitalizing on a rebound from Federico Valverde’s powerful shot. Betis responded with sustained pressure before halftime, forcing Madrid goalkeeper Andrii Lunin into key saves against Antony, Cedric Bakambu, and Pablo Fornals.

Kylian Mbappe, making his 100th appearance for Madrid, had a goal disallowed for offside early in the second half. Alvaro Valles then denied Eduardo Camavinga in stoppage time as Madrid sought to seal the win. However, Bellerin’s deflected effort beat Lunin in the final moments, though Madrid protested that Ferland Mendy was fouled in the buildup.

Madrid have now conceded in their last 10 LaLiga matches (13 goals), their worst defensive run in a single season since May 2004 under Carlos Queiroz.

**Data Analysis: Defensive Struggles Cost Madrid** The expected goals (xG) were nearly even, with Betis registering 1.08 from 19 attempts and Madrid 1.09 from 12 shots. Valles’ seven saves proved vital for Betis, who have earned 15 points from losing positions this season—only Barcelona (21) have more in 2025-26. Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities continue to hinder their title ambitions.