Betis needed a win and to avoid a loss in the derby against Sevilla, but found themselves challenged by their European rivals. Quique Sánchez Flores’ team faced tough competition from the green and white side and managed to secure a point. Although the point didn’t benefit Sevilla, it allowed Betis to emerge as the victorious team in a match where Isco set the pace. [Narrative and statistics]
When celebrating his goal, Isco seemed to have forgotten about his past with Sevilla and embraced his green and white identity. His time in Nervión wasn’t pleasant, and he took revenge by defeating his eternal rival. Sevilla arrived at Villamarín with three victories under their belt, eager to puncture Betis’ European aspirations, the only consolation they have in a lackluster season. However, they found themselves overwhelmed with various challenges. Quique had devised a plan to neutralize Isco, the driving force behind Betis’ game, but his plans were disrupted by Isaac Romero’s injury and the need to rely on a clueless Lukébakio, who made unbelievable mistakes, including missing a header from an open goal after Ocampos’ shot hit the post.
Sevilla attempted to make their way towards Rui Silva’s goal, but after half an hour, Betis started to gain momentum, especially with Isco leading the way. A well-placed cross from Isco found Bakambu, which resulted in Nyland having to clear the ball at Fornals’ feet. Unfortunately for Fornals, Sergio Ramos prevented him from scoring. Betis continued to push, and Lukébakio scored a goal by turning before another center from Fornals, which struck his hand. Despite some doubts, Sánchez Martínez, along with VAR, pointed to the penalty spot, and Isco made no mistake in converting it.
Sevilla went into halftime feeling defeated and on the verge of receiving another blow when Bakambu sprinted from his own half to chase a long pass from Miranda and face the Sevilla goalkeeper. Nyland couldn’t stop him but managed to force Bakambu off the field. Nyland had to make a vital save from a shot by Ayoze, who skillfully maneuvered past Badé.
The intensity of the match escalated when Quique made a tactical change to chase the equalizer, and Kike Salas delivered by scoring a powerful header. Betis demanded another penalty for Badé’s slap on Isco, but VAR clarified that it was not punishable this time.
Rather than settling, Sevilla focused on containing the relentless momentum created by Betis, fueled by the support of 55,000 passionate fans. Betis took the lead through Isco’s boots, who scored against Nyland after receiving a crucial assist from Fekir in the heart of the box. The victory seemed within reach as Abde’s header hit the crossbar, followed by Chadi Riad’s attempt. However, neither team managed to claim the victory in this fiercely contested derby, as nobody wanted to suffer a defeat.