Betis snatch late leveller to deny La Liga leaders Barca
La Liga leaders Barcelona were denied victory at the Benito Villamarin Stadium on Saturday as Real Betis staged a late comeback, with Assane Diao scoring a dramatic 94th-minute equaliser to secure a 2-2 draw.
Despite taking the lead twice through Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, Barcelona failed to hold on, extending their struggles in away games. The Catalans now sit five points ahead of Real Madrid, who have two games in hand.
Betis began the match on the front foot, forcing Barcelona’s goalkeeper Inaki Pena into early action. After weathering the storm, Barcelona struck first with Lewandowski netting his 16th league goal this season.
However, Betis responded in the second half when Frenkie de Jong conceded a penalty after a VAR review. Giovani Lo Celso converted from the spot, and Barcelona coach Hansi Flick was sent off for protesting the decision.
Substitute Ferran Torres seemed to have sealed victory for Barca in the 80th minute, only for Diao to exploit a defensive lapse in stoppage time, ensuring the points were shared.
Coaches React
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick admitted his side needed to improve their away performances, stating, “We have the quality to win every match but must show that, especially in away games.”
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Real Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini expressed mixed emotions, saying, “The performance leaves me very happy, but the result is bitter. We deserved more.”
Key Stats and Moments
Robert Lewandowski remains La Liga’s top scorer with 16 goals this season.
Ferran Torres scored his second goal in as many games, showing promising form.
Betis’ resilience pushed Barcelona to their sixth away-game setback of the campaign.
Barcelona must bounce back as Real Madrid looks to capitalise on their slip in the La Liga title race.
Written by Sakinat Musa Abubakar, Editor at Neptune Prime
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