Isco was the match-winner for Real Betis Balompié, scoring the only goal in their Champions League clash with Feyenoord on Wednesday. The midfielder converted a 59th-minute penalty to secure a 1-0 victory that extends the team's perfect start in Europe. This result, following the 3-2 win over FC Porto and the 5-2 victory against Osasuna, is part of a strong recent run of three wins and a draw from their last five matches.
The Verdiblancos, who sit fourth in La Liga with 19 points, controlled the game at the Benito Villamarín. The home side created 23 shots, with 10 on target, compared to Feyenoord's 12 and 2. Goalkeeper Álvaro Vallés was rarely tested, making just two saves, while his Dutch counterpart Ernst was forced into action nine times. In the league standings, the team's record reads six wins, one draw, and two losses, having scored 16 goals and conceded 14.
How the match was won
The first half saw Betis in control, with clear chances for Abde Ezzalzouli and Troy Parrott, but no breakthrough. The decisive moment came just before the hour mark when the referee pointed to the spot for a foul inside the box. Isco stepped up and made no mistake, firing into the corner to spark celebrations in the stadium. Manager Manuel Pellegrini made several substitutions to manage the lead, introducing players like Dani Ceballos and Rodrigo Riquelme, who later received a yellow card.
This win gives Betis a perfect record of three victories in the Champions League group stage. The team now turns its attention to a key domestic fixture next Sunday, a trip to Balaídos to face eighth-placed Celta Vigo. Forward Abde Ezzalzouli, who has three goals this season, will be a key figure in Vigo. In La Liga, Betis are eight points behind leaders Barcelona, following a 2-5 defeat to them on Saturday 17 October. Their next league match is away at Celta Vigo on Sunday 25 October.
Real Betis is one of only five teams with a perfect record in the Champions League group stage, the club confirmed. The team, fourth in La Liga with 19 points, won its third consecutive match in Europe against Feyenoord. The match was played at La Cartuja in front of 67,524 spectators.
Manager Manuel Pellegrini highlighted his team's style after the win against Feyenoord. "Faithful to their style, 'Pellegrini-style'", said the coach about the total control of the match. Betis, fourth in La Liga with 19 points, maintains its perfect record in the Champions League group stage.
