Real Betis Balompié marked their long-awaited return to the Champions League with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Porto at La Cartuja stadium. Manuel Pellegrini's side fought back from a deficit in front of 67,117 fans to claim a key three points in their opening Group C fixture.
Ez Abde put the Verdiblancos ahead early in the second half with a fierce strike into the far corner. Porto turned the game around within seven minutes through a Gabri Veiga free-kick and a finish from Samu Omorodion. The Betis response was ignited by substitute Cucho Hernández, who levelled the scores in the 74th minute following an assist from Antony. Isco completed the turnaround, converting an 84th-minute penalty awarded after a foul on Ángel Ortiz following a VAR review.
Key performances
Isco stepped up to take the decisive spot-kick, continuing his fine form after a brace against Osasuna. Ez Abde was a constant threat and opened the scoring with a moment of individual quality. Ángel Ortiz dominated the right flank and was instrumental in winning the late penalty.
In midfield, Marc Roca provided a composed foundation with near-flawless distribution. Nelson Deossa added energy and completed 43 of his 48 passes. Goalkeeper Álvaro Valles redeemed himself after a shaky start with a spectacular late save to deny Santi Giménez and secure the points.
Manager Manuel Pellegrini extracted a performance full of character from his squad. "It was a very important victory for us, full of spirit," the Chilean coach said after the match. Betis showed convincing attacking punch but will need to tighten defensive marking in the box for future challenges.
The win gives Betis a perfect start in the group stage. The team can now look ahead to their upcoming fixtures as they aim to consolidate their position. Despite absences like William Carvalho, the squad showed valuable depth with impactful contributions from the bench. Cucho Hernández's equaliser was his first-ever goal in the Champions League.
Betis' next match is on Sunday in LaLiga, away to a direct rival. With morale high, the team faces a key week that could define their season both in Europe and domestically.
