Betis opens LaLiga season with 1-0 win over Real Sociedad

Real Betis began their LaLiga season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Real Sociedad, thanks to a second-half strike from Rodrigo Riquelme. The win, secured in the 63rd minute after a precise pass from Cucho Hernández, gives Manuel Pellegrini's side their first three points of the campaign.

The match marked the delayed season debut for both clubs, as several players were involved in the recent World Cup. Real Sociedad, despite competing fiercely throughout the game, could not find an equalizer. Luka Sucic came close, hitting the post just five minutes after Riquelme's goal.

Both teams are considered contenders for European spots. This season marks Pellegrini's seventh with Betis, who are returning to the Champions League after a 21-year absence. The game itself was intense from the start, with both sides showing the typical lack of match fitness common at this stage of the season. While possession was contested, clear chances were scarce in the first half, with both teams struggling to penetrate the opposing defenses. Real Sociedad showed early dominance in ball possession but lacked attacking depth, while Betis grew into the game, showing defensive solidity and gradually imposing their style.