Real Madrid threw away a winning position in the cruellest fashion on Thursday night, conceding a 94th-minute goal at La Cartuja to draw 1-1 with Real Betis. The result leaves them eight points behind Barcelona with five games remaining — and with only 15 points still to play for, the La Liga title is mathematically over for Arbeloa's side.
THE GOALS
Vinicius Junior gave Madrid the lead in the 17th minute, finishing a sharp team move with a composed finish. It was his second goal in three days after his long-range strike against Alaves on Tuesday. Madrid controlled the first half from there, keeping Betis at arm's length despite the home side creating occasional openings. Lunin was called into action for a brilliant reaction save to deny Cucho Hernandez in the second half as Betis pushed forward. Madrid introduced Alaba and Camavinga from the bench as they looked to see the game out. They could not. In the 94th minute, Betis substitute Antony — returning from suspension — retrieved possession deep and drove forward, his cutback finding Hector Bellerin at the back post. The former Arsenal full-back struck low past Lunin to make it 1-1 and send La Cartuja into pandemonium. Rudiger had attempted a clearance off the line but it was not enough.
HOW THE GAME PLAYED OUT
Madrid were the better side for long stretches. They registered 16 shot attempts to Betis's nine, with Sivera making saves and Madrid hitting the woodwork on multiple occasions. Bellingham had a shot on goal on 35 minutes. Alexander-Arnold picked up a yellow card for a cynical foul on Ezzalzouli. Huijsen was also booked in the first half. The game looked to be heading to a straightforward three points for Madrid — but a moment of individual brilliance from Antony undid everything in stoppage time. Betis played their 100th La Liga game for Pablo Fornals this evening, who was substituted off to a standing ovation before Lo Celso came on.
WHAT IT MEANS
The draw is devastating for Madrid in the context of the title race. Barcelona now lead by eight points with five games remaining — and with only 15 points left to play for, the championship is over. Even if Madrid win all five remaining games, Barcelona need only one point from their five fixtures to be confirmed champions. With Yamal injured and the title gone, Barcelona will clinch at some point in the coming weeks. For Madrid, this is now a season with zero trophies — no La Liga, no Copa del Rey, no Champions League — and the focus turns entirely to the summer rebuild under a new coach.
