Real Betis pulled off a stunning comeback victory against Real Madrid, defeating the reigning La Liga champions 2-1 on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Estadio Benito Villamarín. The match was laden with drama and significance, as both teams navigated their fortunes; Madrid aimed to keep pace with Barcelona at the top of the table, whereas Betis sought to climb higher after recent solid performances.
The match started with Los Blancos demonstrating clinical precision. Just 10 minutes in, Kylian Mbappé orchestrated the play, slipping the ball to Ferland Mendy, who then squared it for Brahim Díaz to tap it home from close range. With Madrid's early lead, their supporters' hopes soared, and they appeared to be firmly in command.
Despite this, Betis refused to buckle under pressure. They gradually found their rhythm and began to create chances of their own. The breakthrough came shortly before halftime when Johnny Cardoso headed the ball past Thibaut Courtois. The goal originated from a corner taken by Isco, who had significant contributions throughout the match. Cardoso’s goal equalized the match at 1-1, sending the home crowd at the Benito Villamarín buzzing with excitement.
Returning from the break, Betis displayed increased intensity, and shortly after the halftime whistle, they were awarded a penalty. Jesús Rodríguez was brought down inside the box by Antonio Rüdiger, and the responsibility fell on the capable shoulders of Isco—captaining his side against the club where he spent nine successful years. With unwavering confidence, Isco smashed the ball home from the spot, giving Betis the lead at 2-1.
"I'm dead... it takes so much work to win games, against Madrid, who have so many options, it's very hard," Isco remarked post-match to AFP, clearly emotional and elated. The ex-Madrid man added, "About halfway through the first half we stepped up our game, and I'm happy with the win against the best team around these days." His impassioned celebration—culminated by knee-sliding before the adoring home crowd—exemplified the intensity of his emotions against his former club.
Though Madrid mounted attempts to salvage the match, their discomfort grew as the game progressed. Cucho Hernández had the chance to add to Betis’s tally but missed the target after being set up by Manchester United loanee Antony, recently cleared to play following the overturn of his red card.
Betis's tactical approach under the watchful eye of manager Manuel Pellegrini showed remarkable results, as they outshot their formidable opponents 18 to 9. The match effectively illustrated the disparities between the two teams on the night—Madrid's errors and inability to capitalize on their early lead brought them their fourth league loss of the season.
This defeat left Carlo Ancelotti’s squad trailing Barcelona on goal difference. The notable absence of star player Jude Bellingham, suspended weeks prior, was palpable, as his dynamism was sorely missed. Instead, Madrid saw Endrick come on as a substitute, who had shown promise but couldn’t quite break through Betis’s determined defense.
Real Betis moved up to sixth place with their hard-fought victory, fully deserving of the three points. With the league remaining tightly contested, and where every point carries weight, this win gives Betis momentum and confidence moving forward.
Isco’s standout performance earned him the Man of the Match honors, reminding everyone of his prowess and commitment to the game. His celebration was not just for individual glory but also reflected the pride of wearing Betis colors and achieving such notable victories against one of the best teams.
This matchup serves as another chapter of twists and turns leading up to the climax of the La Liga season, with both teams aiming for the title and European spots. For Real Madrid, the road now looks challenging, as they aim to bounce back from this upset.
Isco’s return has been nothing short of extraordinary, helping his team rise against stiff competition and bringing waves of hope to the Betis fanbase. With more exciting fixtures on the calendar, the league remains ripe for surprises, and with Isco at the helm, Betis certainly carries the fire to challenge any opponent.