Betis Defeats Real Sociedad in La Liga Opener

Real Betis Balompié secured a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad in their La Liga opener, with Rodrigo Riquelme's 63rd-minute goal sealing the win. The tightly contested match saw Pellegrini's side claim crucial three points.

22 Aug 2026

Updated 23 Aug 2026 By Clara Pineda · senior correspondent

The Match

Real Betis Balompié opened their La Liga campaign with a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad, last season's Copa del Rey winners. Rodrigo Riquelme's goal, converted from Cucho Hernández's cross in the 63rd minute, was the decisive factor in a tightly contested game. Manuel Pellegrini, Betis' coach, highlighted his team's defensive solidity and efficiency in key moments.

Other Matches

Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho started his second stint as Real Madrid coach with a match against Espanyol, following two seasons without major trophies. Hansi Flick led Barcelona, Spanish champions, in their season opener against Elche. The La Liga day also featured other games, but the Betis vs. Sociedad match stood out for its intensity and result.