Real Madrid suffered a disappointing defeat on March 1, 2025, as they lost 2-1 to Real Betis at the Benito Villamarín Stadium, significantly impacting their title chase. The match, part of the 26th round of LaLiga, began with high hopes for the Madrid side, but they could not maintain their early advantage.
The visiting team struck first, taking the lead within the first ten minutes. Brahim Díaz, benefiting from some slick combination play involving Kylian Mbappé and Ferland Mendy, found the back of the net. Mendy executed a precise pass across the face of the goal, allowing Díaz to finish from close range. Madrid's early goal quieted the home crowd, but the celebration was short-lived.
Real Betis quickly regrouped, leveraging set pieces and counterplays. After some initial probing attempts, Johnny Cardoso leveled the score at 1-1 with a powerful header from Isco’s corner kick around the 33rd minute. With this goal, Betis not only equalized but also revived their spirits, drawing the enthusiasm of their fans even as rain fell steadily throughout the match.
Following the equalizer, the dynamics of the game shifted, with Betis taking control. They continued applying pressure, showcasing determination and creativity. Notably, Isco, who had once donned the white jersey of Madrid, displayed his playmaking prowess, orchestrated attacks, and soon influenced the game’s outcome.
After halftime, the match witnessed intense exchanges. Betis pressed forward and swiftly seized their opportunity for the lead when Rüdiger fouled Jesús Rodríguez inside the box, resulting in a penalty. Isco took charge to convert the spot-kick, sending Thibaut Courtois the wrong way with his powerful shot for the second goal, solidifying Betis’s 2-1 advantage.
The response from Real Madrid was underwhelming, with attempts by Vinícius Jr. and others failing to penetrate Betis' tenacious defense. Despite Ancelotti's tactical changes, bringing on fresh legs, including young talent Endrick, Madrid struggled to find clarity and rhythm.
Isco's performance delighted home fans, undoing any hopes of redemption for the visitors, most of whom were still reeling from the shock of conceding after their bright start. "Cuesta mucho ganar los partidos y más ante el Real Madrid, con millones de recursos. Hemos salido desconectados al partido y nos han hecho mucho daño. Hay que seguir, no venirse arriba," said Isco post-match, reflecting on the resilience his team displayed. His words echoed the sentiments felt within the Betis camp but underscored the challenges faced by Madrid.
Despite several attempts to equalize late on, including close calls with Endrick's late shot missing the mark, Real Madrid could not regain momentum or find the back of the net again. The match concluded with Betis celebrating their hard-fought victory, lifting their spirits as they climbed the standings toward European competition spots.
The defeat left Real Madrid with 54 points, tied at the top but likely feeling the pressure mounting with Barcelona poised to play and Atlético Madrid gaining ground. This loss complicates Madrid’s title aspirations, especially as they prepare for important matches to come, including their upcoming clash with Atlético in the Champions League.
Real Betis, on the other hand, elevated to 38 points, now pressing for European qualification and showing they can challenge the top teams competently on their own turf. This match reaffirmed their place as a formidable opponent and signaled their aspirations to solidify their standing as they continue the season.