Real Betis Balompié lifts the Trofeo Colombino

Real Betis Balompié won its sixth Trofeo Colombino on July 22, 2026, beating Real Club Recreativo de Huelva in the 57th edition. The match, part of the second preseason test, ended 2‑1 for the verdiblancos, providing a solid start before the league begins.

How did the match unfold?

The game opened with a header hitting the post after a corner, but Betis responded quickly. In the tenth minute, Marc Roca delivered a long ball that Pablo García controlled and entered the box, where he suffered a challenge that could have been a penalty, though the referee saw no foul. Without VAR, the Betis protests were in vain.

What role did the youth players have?

Betis' academy players were key. After halftime, Jesús Galván changed his lineup and Diego Conde debuted as goalkeeper, saving a long-range shot from Pecellín. In the second half, Junior Firpo scored, but the goal was ruled out for off‑side. Rodrigo Riquelme, assisted by Bellerín, restored the lead with a powerful strike.

What does this win mean for the season?

The victory boosts confidence ahead of the 2026‑27 campaign. Betis finished the 2025 season in fifth place in La Liga with 60 points (15 W‑15 D‑8 L) and a +11 goal difference (59 scored, 48 conceded), and now sits 34 points behind leaders Barcelona, keeping European ambitions alive.

What’s next for Real Betis Balompié?

After the Trofeo Colombino, manager Pellegrini has introduced several academy players and the signing of Fran García, who already displayed his speed on the left flank. The next stop is a friendly against Sevilla FC, where Betis will aim to fine‑tune its play before the official La Liga kickoff in August.