Betis hand leaders Real Madrid their first defeat of the season

Álvaro Valles saved Kylian Mbappé’s stoppage-time penalty to cap Betis’ victory over Real Madrid and hand the league leaders their first defeat of the season.

Real Madrid controlled the opening stages despite Betis’ aggressive high press. Valles kept the hosts level in the 11th minute when he turned away a close-range effort from Huijsen. Four minutes later, Vinicius hit the post from a tight angle when he appeared to have a clear chance.

Betis began to escape Madrid’s pressure midway through the first half, with Isco moving deeper to organize the attack and linking with Antony. The Brazilian produced an acrobatic touch for Cucho Hernández, whose first-time shot narrowly missed the post in the 22nd minute.

Madrid then came close at the other end. Arda Güler, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius combined on a rapid counterattack before Mbappé received a cutback. Natan blocked his first shot on the goal line, and Marc Bartra stopped the rebound with his chest on the same line.

The balance shifted after halftime as the heat in Seville and the physical toll affected Madrid’s midfield. Manuel Pellegrini’s substitutions gave Betis fresh energy, while Troy Parrott became the team’s focal point when playing with his back to goal. The Irish striker, Betis’ most expensive signing of the summer, scored in his third official appearance by reacting to a short rebound from Thibaut Courtois after Deossa’s powerful header from a corner.

Madrid pushed for an equalizer in a frantic added-time period. Carlos Espí appeared to score, but the goal was ruled out for an earlier offside. Vinicius then won a penalty after a foul by Natan, but Mbappé’s low-powered effort toward the right met Valles’ hands, sealing an unforgettable night for the Andalusian side.