Jude Bellingham’s Goal Not Enough as Real Madrid Settles for Draw Against Real Betis
Posted By Sammy Legals
December 9, 2023
11:58 pm
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Real Madrid faltered in the La Liga title race, settling for a 1-1 draw against Real Betis in Seville on Saturday.
The first half between Betis and Madrid lacked excitement, with both teams struggling to create scoring chances. Jude Bellingham, with his 16th goal of the season in his 18th appearance, provided the breakthrough.
Nonetheless, Aitor Ruibal’s powerful effort in the second half led to a 1-1 draw, causing Madrid to slip in the title race.
With Girona breathing down their necks, Real Madrid aimed to secure a victory in Seville to maintain their La Liga lead. Early opportunities arose at both ends, with Marc Roca’s attempt held by Andriy Lunin, and Luka Modric’s header missing the target.
Although Brahim Diaz appeared to give Madrid the lead, his goal was disallowed due to Rodrygo’s offside in the buildup.
Despite dominating possession, Madrid struggled to test Betis’ Rui Silva. Ayoze Perez and Willian Jose provided challenges for Lunin, but the first half ended goalless with rare moments of quality in the final third.
Isco, a former Real Madrid player, nearly provided an early second-half lead for the hosts, testing Lunin with a goal-bound effort that the goalkeeper blocked with a sprawling save.
However, it was Jude Bellingham who once again made an impact for Madrid, executing a beautiful one-two with Diaz, controlling the ball adeptly on his chest, and calmly slotting it beyond Silva.
Rodrygo’s solo run almost doubled Madrid’s lead, but Betis responded with flair as Aitor Ruibal unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the area, equalizing in style after 66 minutes.
Despite a late post-hit by Isco’s header, neither side could secure a decisive winner, and Madrid conceded two crucial points in the title race.