Real Madrid's aspirations of retaining their position at the top of La Liga took a blow on March 1, 2025, as they fell 2-1 to Real Betis at the Benito Villamarn stadium. This defeat, the first time Madrid has lost to Betis at their home ground in five years, may have significant ramifications for the title race.
The match opened with Real Madrid taking the lead early on, courtesy of Brahim Daz. Just ten minutes had elapsed when Ferland Mendy, working well with Kylian Mbapp, made a dash down the left wing and delivered a perfect low ball across the box, allowing Daz to finish from close range effortlessly. The early goal set the tone for what seemed like it might be another strong performance for the "merengues."
Yet, the home side wasn't fazed by the early setback. Real Betis, led by Isco Alarcón, gradually found their rhythm, and their persistence paid off. By the 34th minute, Betis leveled the score through Jhonny Cardoso, who showcased his positioning by rising unmarked to head home from Isco's corner kick. With the crowd urging them on, the hosts revitalized their momentum.
After halftime, the match continued at pace, yet it was Betis who seized back the initiative. Just seven minutes after the break, Antonio Rüdiger fouled Jesús Rodríguez inside the penalty area, prompting the referee, Alejandro José Hernández Hernández, to award the penalty. Isco confidently stepped up to take the spot-kick against his former club and delivered, placing the ball past Thibaut Courtois who had guessed the correct side but was unable to reach the shot.
From then on, Madrid struggled to regain control and lacked the sharpness needed to find the equalizer. With players like Kylian Mbapp and Vinicius Jr. unable to spark the offensive fire necessary, Betis' resolute defense proved impenetrable. Even with tactical adjustments made by coach Carlo Ancelotti—including substitutions like Eduardo Camavinga and Arda Güler—Madrid’s attempts to penetrate the home side's defenses fell flat.
At the other end, Betis wasn't simply sitting back. They pressed forward, coming close to extending their lead thanks to Antony's threatening runs and attempted setups. One such moment saw Cucho Hernández clear past the Madrid defense, but his shot went narrowly off target with only Courtois to beat.
With the clock winding down, Real Madrid's desperation was palpable. The lack of ideas became evident as they tried to surge forward, but the chemistry and fluency needed at this high-stakes moment were absent. The attacking strategy seemed less coordinated, leading to miscommunications on the pitch.
This match's outcome had immediate consequences within La Liga standings. With Barcelona chasing closely due to their upcoming match against Real Sociedad, the defeat leaves Madrid vulnerable to being surpassed. The title chase, already tight with Atlético Madrid also lurking, has intensified significantly and may place additional pressure on Madrid’s next matches.
Post-match, emotions ran high. Vinicius Jr. found himself embroiled in heated exchanges on the field, showcasing frustration with opponents. After the final whistle, tensions subsided as he showed sportsmanship, greeting several Betis players like Antony with respect, indicating the competitive spirit but professional nature of football.
Real Madrid's path will require immediate attention. With key players like Federico Valverde, Dani Ceballos, and Jude Bellingham unavailable for selection due to injury and suspension respectively, continuing success looks challenging. Meanwhile, Real Betis, under manager Manuel Pellegrini, can savour this significant triumph and build on their performances leading up to potential European qualification.
Both teams will need to maintain their focus as La Liga progresses; Betis aims for European spots, whereas Madrid must rally to keep their title hopes alive amid mounting challenges.