Real Betis Matchday Reports and News

[Evan@Betis]

SEASON 5
Athletic Bilbao vs Real Betis - League Round 5

Athletic Bilbao Edge Real Betis 3-2 in Hard-Fought Encounter

Date: January 20, 2025


Real Betis suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat against Athletic Bilbao in a thrilling League Round 5 encounter at San Mames. Despite an impressive performance from D_Nunez, Betis were unable to overcome Bilbaos efficient attack, led by Man of the Match O_Sancet.


Bilbao took the lead early through Yeray in the 6th minute, capitalizing on a set-piece situation. Betis responded in the 24th minute when R_L_Cabral scored with a clinical finish to level the game. However, Bilbao regained the lead in the 38th minute through G_Guruzeta, sending the hosts into halftime with a 2-1 advantage.


In the second half, O_Sancet extended Bilbaos lead in the 56th minute with a stunning strike. Betis continued to push for a way back and were rewarded late into stoppage time when D_Nunez found the net in the 97th minute. Unfortunately for the visitors, time ran out, and Bilbao held on to secure all three points.


Statistically, the match was closely contested, with Betis edging possession at 54%. Both teams recorded 11 shots on target, but Bilbao made their chances count. Betis defense worked hard with 11 key tackles, but they struggled to contain Bilbaos efficient attackers.


D_Nunez continued his fine form, delivering another strong performance and finding the back of the net once again. However, Bilbaos O_Sancet stole the show, contributing not only with his goal but also through his influence in midfield.


This defeat leaves Betis needing to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next match against Ajax at home in Round 6. With two wins and three losses so far this season, consistency remains the key for Betis as they look to climb the league table.

[Evan@Betis]

SEASON 5
Real Betis vs Ajax - League Round 6

Real Betis Suffer Heavy 5-1 Defeat at Home Against Ajax

Date: January 24, 2025


Real Betis endured a crushing 5-1 defeat at the hands of Ajax in League Round 6 at the Estadio Benito Villamarin. Despite a strong attacking effort, Betis struggled defensively, and Ajax capitalized on key moments to secure a resounding victory.


The match turned in Ajaxs favor late in the first half when G_Mikauatadze scored in the 44th minute. To make matters worse for Betis, C_Awaziem received a red card in the same minute, leaving the hosts with ten men for the remainder of the game.


Ajax wasted no time taking advantage of their numerical superiority. B_Tahirovic doubled the visitors lead in the 49th minute, followed by S_Steijns goal in the 56th. K_Frees, who was named Man of the Match, scored Ajaxs fourth goal in the 73rd minute. C_Forbs capped off the scoring with a fifth in the 81st minute.


Real Betis showed resilience and pulled one back in the 75th minute through D_Braaten, who was their standout performer in an otherwise difficult match. However, it was not enough to spark a comeback.


Statistically, Betis had more attempts on goal (22 to Ajaxs 11) and managed 15 shots on target compared to Ajaxs 9. Despite these numbers, Ajaxs efficiency and Betis defensive lapses, compounded by the red card, proved decisive.


The loss leaves Betis with much to ponder as they aim to recover from this heavy defeat. Their next match is a crucial away fixture against FC Porto, where they will seek to bounce back and regain momentum in the league.

[Evan@Betis]

February Recap: A Rollercoaster Month for Real Betis Ends on a Mixed Note

February proved to be one of the most demanding months of the season for Real Betis, who faced eight league fixtures that tested the squad’s depth, resolve, and tactical cohesion. The results painted a picture of a team still trying to find its rhythm, with two wins, one draw, and five losses. A month filled with late goals, defensive lapses, attacking brilliance, and redemptive moments, February was nothing short of a footballing rollercoaster.

In a tightly contested league campaign, every point matters. For Real Betis, February was a pivotal month that could shape their trajectory for the remainder of Season 5. Here’s an in-depth breakdown of how each match unfolded and what it revealed about this ever-unpredictable Betis side.


Matchday 9 – Feb 3: Shakhtar Donetsk 4-2 Real Betis

The month opened with a tough away trip to Ukraine where Betis struggled to match Shakhtar’s energy and precision. Goals from V_Gyokeres, J_Obikwu, H_Sudakov, and D_Luiz put the game beyond reach, despite efforts from M_Reisinho and a late D_Nunez goal in stoppage time. Shakhtar dominated possession (60%) and had 13 shots on target compared to Betis’ 8. Betis’ defense simply couldn’t contain the swift movement and fluid buildup play from the home side. The match exposed weaknesses in transition defense that would become a recurring issue throughout the month.


Matchday 10 – Feb 7: Borussia Dortmund 2-0 Real Betis

Dortmund’s midfield excellence, led by Man of the Match M_Penders, controlled the tempo throughout. Despite nine shots on target, Betis couldn’t find the net, largely due to a compact Dortmund backline and some outstanding goalkeeping. Suso and S_Guirassy scored for the hosts, while Betis lost R_L_Cabral to injury in the 74th minute. The lack of cutting edge in the final third was a concern, and fatigue seemed to affect the squad’s sharpness.


Matchday 11 – Feb 10: Real Betis 2-3 Union Berlin

Back at the Benito Villamarín, Betis hoped to bounce back, and things looked promising early on. Goals from A_Nesta and D_Nunez had them 2-1 up, but Union Berlin turned the game around thanks to a second goal from S_Aguero and a powerful header by D_Leite. Union held 64% possession, and Betis simply couldn’t hold on in the closing stages. Questions continued to mount about the team’s ability to defend leads under pressure.


Matchday 12 – Feb 14: Benfica 4-3 Real Betis

In a seven-goal thriller in Lisbon, Betis raced to a 3-1 lead through early strikes from F_Uduokhai and N_Vlasic (brace). However, P_Schick produced a devastating second-half hat-trick to snatch the points for Benfica. It was a heartbreaking loss for Betis, who had shown quality in attack but were undone by defensive lapses and poor discipline, earning four yellow cards. This match typified Betis’ month—creative in attack, but fragile at the back.


Matchday 13 – Feb 17: Real Betis 3-1 Sparta Prague

Finally, a breakthrough. At home, Betis looked composed and clinical. N_Vlasic scored twice, and D_Nunez added one more as Betis controlled the game despite having less possession. J_Sterner pulled one back late for Sparta, but Betis looked the better side throughout, securing their first win of the month. It was a much-needed morale boost that reinvigorated belief within the squad.


Matchday 14 – Feb 21: Valencia 2-2 Real Betis

This was a match of resilience. M_Nade gave Betis an early lead, and L_Torro added another in the 72nd minute. However, A_Lacazette’s brace—including a dramatic 84th-minute equalizer—denied Betis all three points. M_Reisinho was named Betis’ best player, offering balance and creativity in midfield. The draw felt like two points dropped rather than one gained, especially considering Betis had been in control for long spells.


Matchday 15 – Feb 24: Real Betis 3-2 Feyenoord

A stunning comeback at the Benito Villamarín. Down 2-0 after 30 minutes, Betis clawed back after Feyenoord went down to ten men early in the second half. D_Nunez kickstarted the rally, followed by N_Stark’s header and a late winner from E_Marcondes. It was a spirited win that showcased the team’s attacking depth and mental fortitude. This victory was arguably Betis’ best all-round performance in terms of heart and tactical flexibility.


Matchday 16 – Feb 28: Wolfsburg 4-1 Real Betis

The month ended in disappointment with a heavy loss in Germany. Wolfsburg were in control from start to finish, led by Vinicius_Jr, who scored and assisted. R_L_Cabral’s red card in the 63rd minute made matters worse. N_Vlasic scored a consolation goal, but it was a frustrating night where Betis looked overwhelmed in all areas. The defeat served as a reality check and a reminder that consistency remains elusive.


February Summary:

• Matches Played: 8

• Wins: 2

• Draws: 1

• Losses: 5

• Goals Scored: 20

• Goals Conceded: 25

• Clean Sheets: 0

• Top Performer: N_Vlasic (4 goals, 2 MOTM awards)

• Highlight Victory: 3-2 vs Feyenoord

• Toughest Loss: 4-1 vs Wolfsburg


What’s Next?

Real Betis head into March with questions to answer—especially in defense. The attacking core—featuring N_Vlasic, D_Nunez, and emerging names like E_Marcondes—continues to show promise. But without a solid foundation at the back, Betis will find it difficult to turn performances into consistent results. As injuries begin to mount and suspensions creep in, squad rotation and tactical flexibility will be critical.

There’s plenty of football still to be played, and Betis remain within striking distance of the upper half of the table. If they can learn from February’s setbacks and find a balance between attacking ambition and defensive discipline, there’s still hope for a strong finish to Season 5.

[Evan@Betis]

March Recap: A Mixed Bag for Real Betis as Consistency Remains Elusive


March was a month filled with promise, grit, and moments of brilliance for Real Betis, but also one that exposed the team’s lingering vulnerabilities. Across seven league fixtures and two crucial cup ties, Betis showed flashes of a team capable of challenging the best, while also suffering from lapses in concentration and missed opportunities.

While the club did not go on a major winning streak, there were several positive takeaways to build upon. Manager Evanporez Singh rotated his squad smartly and gave opportunities to rising performers like O_Edouard and M_Reisinho, who delivered. The team’s attacking identity continued to flourish, but defensive lapses and lapses in discipline showed the other side of a team still finding its balance.

Let’s take a match-by-match look at how March unfolded for the Verdiblancos.


League Round 17 – March 3: Real Betis 2-1 PSV

The month began on a strong note at home against PSV. Early goals from T_Abraham and a Y_Couto own goal gave Betis a 2-0 cushion within the first half-hour. Despite a late scare from E_Adebayo, who scored in the 87th minute, Betis held firm. O_Edouard was named Man of the Match for his tireless pressing, movement, and link-up play that kept the PSV defense on edge. The win snapped a brief winless streak and set a solid tone for what looked like a resurgent month.


Football League Trophy Round 3 – March 5: Norwich City 1-4 Real Betis

In cup action, Betis traveled to Carrow Road and dismantled Norwich City with ease. D_Nunez led the charge with a clinical brace, while M_Reisinho and L_Torro added to the tally. Norwich went down to ten men after B_Cheyrou’s dismissal in the 65th minute, making Betis’ job easier. D_Nunez earned Man of the Match for his two goals and all-round attacking performance. The squad’s rotation worked to perfection, and Betis looked like a team on a mission in the competition.


League Round 18 – March 7: RB Salzburg 3-2 Real Betis

Betis fell behind early in Austria, with L_Maina netting twice in the opening 12 minutes to put Salzburg in command. O_Edouard responded with a composed finish in the 36th minute, and T_Abraham brought the game level in the 72nd. However, just when Betis seemed poised to steal a point—or even win it—D_Nene’s stoppage-time goal broke their hearts. T_Abraham, despite the loss, was exceptional and deservedly earned Man of the Match. Defensive shape and game management were again called into question.


League Round 19 – March 10: Schalke 0-0 Real Betis

In Germany, Betis recorded a clean sheet and a point in a tight, tactical match. A_Bayindir delivered a brilliant goalkeeping performance, earning Man of the Match honors. Schalke controlled much of the possession and had more chances, but Betis’ defense held strong. It wasn’t a flashy game, but the clean sheet was a welcome sight for the coaching staff after a string of high-scoring games.


Football League Trophy Round 4 – March 12: Lyon 1-1 Real Betis (Lyon win 5-4 on penalties)

Back in cup play, Betis faced a tough opponent in Lyon. After conceding early to A_Bondarenko, F_Uduokhai equalized with a powerful header. The game remained deadlocked through extra time despite Betis registering 25 shots. Ultimately, it came down to penalties, where Lyon edged it 5-4. It was a painful exit for Betis, who had dominated possession and outshot their opponents. L_Torro and N_Vlasic were strong in midfield, but the finishing lacked sharpness.


League Round 20 – March 14: Real Betis 3-3 Atalanta

At home, Betis found themselves trailing 3-0 after 45 minutes, courtesy of a C_DeKetelaere brace and a T_Koopmeiners strike. But instead of folding, Betis came alive. O_Edouard scored twice and D_Nunez added a third as Betis stormed back to draw 3-3 in one of the season’s most entertaining games. The crowd at the Benito Villamarín roared their team back into contention, and the spirit shown in this comeback was a testament to the squad’s character.


League Round 21 – March 17: Lazio 3-1 Real Betis

For the third time this season, Lazio proved a thorn in Betis’ side. Despite coming off an emotional draw, Betis couldn’t match Lazio’s intensity. Goals from van Hecke, Gakpo, and Alvarez secured the win for the Italian side. C_Ejuke’s goal offered a late consolation. Betis struggled with possession (just 38%) and picked up three yellow cards in a match that exposed their fatigue and lack of control in midfield.


March Summary:

• Matches Played: 9 (7 league, 2 cup)

• Wins: 3

• Draws: 3

• Losses: 3

• Goals Scored: 20

• Goals Conceded: 17

• Clean Sheets: 1

• Top Performer: O_Edouard (4 goals, 2 MOTM awards)

• Highlight Match: 4-1 win vs Norwich City (Cup)

• Toughest Loss: 2-3 vs RB Salzburg (Last-minute goal)


Final Thoughts:

March proved that Real Betis have the firepower to take on anyone. The attacking trio of O_Edouard, D_Nunez, and T_Abraham continue to gel, providing excitement and threat in the final third. The midfield saw solid contributions from Reisinho, Vlasic, and Torro, while the backline showed signs of resilience in select matches.

However, the month also highlighted a lack of composure in big moments, particularly in matches against Salzburg and Lyon, where late goals and penalty drama turned potential victories into disappointments. Fitness concerns and fixture congestion likely played a role, and squad depth will be key heading into April.

As of the end of March, Real Betis sit in 18th place with 22 points, a full 11 points off the playoff zone for promotion. While the gap to 6th place looks daunting, a strong April run could pull them back into the mix—especially if the attacking core maintains form and the defense tightens up.

[Evan@Betis]

April Recap: Real Betis Struggle for Stability in a Grueling Month

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April was a month of extremes for Real Betis, who found themselves riding waves of victory, only to be dragged back down by stinging defeats. Across nine league matches, the club recorded three wins, three draws, and three losses. A tale of two halves if ever there was one, the team looked sharp and efficient in the early rounds, only to lose steam and form toward the end.

The Verdiblancos showed glimpses of resilience, moments of brilliance, and stretches of vulnerability. Manager Evanporez Singh’s side looked capable of pushing into the upper half of the table, but defensive lapses and inconsistencies in the final third continued to stall momentum. Still, standout individual performances—particularly from A_Bayindir, O_Edouard, and T_Abraham—offered cause for optimism heading into the final stretch of the season.

Let’s dive into the match-by-match breakdown that made April a rollercoaster of a month.

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League Round 22 – March 31: Real Betis 1-1 Rennes


In what looked like a straightforward home fixture on paper, Real Betis were stunned just two minutes into the match when S_W_Phillips slotted home for Rennes following a defensive mix-up. The early goal rattled the hosts, but they gradually took control, dominating possession and creating a flurry of chances. Edouard was electric throughout, linking up well with Bruma and Ejuke on the flanks. His equalizer just after halftime was well-deserved—a composed finish into the bottom corner after a threaded pass by Reisinho. Despite their dominance (27 shots and 60% possession), Betis were left frustrated by missed opportunities and some heroic goalkeeping by Rennes' F_Mane.

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League Round 23 – April 4: RB Leipzig 1-2 Real Betis


The trip to Leipzig was expected to be a tough test, but Betis defied expectations with a disciplined, counter-attacking masterclass. Reisinho opened the scoring with a stunning effort from outside the box after Betis caught Leipzig sleeping during a turnover. The hosts hit back through E_Laird, whose lung-busting run from deep ended with a powerful equalizer. With the match finely poised, it was Abraham who seized the moment—ghosting into the box to tap home a low cross from Nunez. The final 10 minutes saw Betis defend deep and smart, with Bayindir commanding his area to perfection. It was a statement win that underlined Betis' ability to rise on big nights.

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League Round 24 – April 7: Real Betis 2-0 Athletic Bilbao


Back at the Villamarín, Betis were full of confidence and it showed. Despite facing a Bilbao side that created 23 attempts on goal, the hosts were organized and ruthless. F_Uduokhai opened the scoring with a bullet header off a Bruma corner. Bilbao continued to probe, but Bayindir made save after save to deny them. The second goal was a thing of beauty: a one-touch passing move ending with O_Edouard slotting home. The chemistry between Betis’ front three was on full display, and Bayindir’s goalkeeping heroics earned him another Man of the Match nod.

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League Round 25 – April 11: Ajax 2-1 Real Betis


A match that started poorly and never quite turned around for the visitors. Ajax were quick out of the blocks, with Mikautadze scoring in the 6th minute and G_Trauner doubling the lead just 13 minutes later. Betis were disorganized defensively and struggled to deal with Ajax’s high pressing. Edouard clawed one back with a well-taken goal after cutting inside from the left, but Betis couldn't sustain pressure. Abraham had a late chance to equalize but fired over. The defeat underlined the difference in squad depth and execution between the two sides.

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League Round 26 – April 14: Real Betis 1-2 FC Porto


Betis’ return home saw them dominate possession and attempts on goal but fail to capitalize. Porto took an early lead through J_de_Guzman and extended it via M_Toure early in the second half. Betis responded through Cabral after a pinpoint cross from Ejuke, and De Guzman's red card gave them hope. But despite a numerical advantage, Betis struggled with decision-making in the final third. C_Ejuke was electric, constantly beating defenders, but his teammates couldn’t convert. Porto defended resolutely, and time ran out.

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League Round 27 – April 18: Lyon 0-0 Real Betis


In one of the more uneventful fixtures of the month, Betis dug deep to earn a point on the road. Lyon dominated the ball and launched wave after wave of attack, but Bayindir stood tall, making several key stops. Offensively, Betis were limited, often relying on long balls and quick counters. Vlasic and Nunez combined well in midfield but lacked support. The clean sheet was encouraging, though the inability to create clear chances remained a concern.

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League Round 28 – April 21: Real Betis 2-3 Shakhtar Donetsk


The match had everything—five goals, lead changes, and heartbreak. Edouard gave Betis an early lead, but Gyokeres equalized almost immediately. The same pattern followed after Shakhtar took a 2-1 lead and Abraham equalized with a composed finish. Just when Betis looked like they might push on for the winner, Heskey popped up with a late dagger in the 87th minute. Betis were shell-shocked. They had 25 shots, 12 on target, and yet fell short once more. A brutal reminder of the importance of focus for the full 90 minutes.

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League Round 29 – April 25: Real Betis 2-4 Borussia Dortmund


Dortmund gave Betis a lesson in ruthlessness. Ugarte opened the scoring with a rocket in the 2nd minute, setting the tone. Betis equalized through Stark, but the floodgates opened soon after. Luiz Felipe, Zakaria (via penalty), and Guirassy piled on the goals. Nunez added a second for Betis, but it was far from enough. The midfield battle was one-sided, with Dortmund cutting through the lines at will. The match left fans and players deflated, as it was another home game where Betis were convincingly outclassed.

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League Round 30 – April 28: Union Berlin 0-0 Real Betis


In the final fixture of the month, Betis traveled to Berlin looking to steady the ship. It wasn’t pretty, but they managed to scrape a draw thanks to another superb performance from Bayindir. The defense was far more compact, and the midfield trio pressed relentlessly. Fritschi’s early booking forced a more cautious approach, but Betis stayed disciplined. While they struggled to create up front, the draw was welcomed as a small step toward stability.

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April Summary:

• Matches Played: 9 (including March 31)
• Wins: 3
• Draws: 3
• Losses: 3
• Goals Scored: 13
• Goals Conceded: 15
• Clean Sheets: 2
• Top Performer: A_Bayindir (3 Man of the Match performances, 2 clean sheets)
• Highlight Match: 2-0 vs Athletic Bilbao
• Toughest Loss: 2-4 vs Borussia Dortmund

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League Outlook:


As of the end of April, Real Betis sit in 18th place with 31 points, now 16 points adrift of 6th place—the final playoff spot for promotion. With just 8 league games remaining, the window to mount a late surge is rapidly narrowing.

There is no margin for error. Real Betis must approach May with a do-or-die mindset, knowing that anything short of near perfection could end their playoff aspirations. The remaining fixtures must be treated like finals, and consistency—both in mentality and execution—will be vital.

The path to the playoffs is steep but not insurmountable. With leaders like O_Edouard up front, Abraham in form, and Bayindir commanding from the back, the pieces are in place. What remains to be seen is whether Betis can put it all together when it matters most.

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