MATCH REPORT | A great point (0-0)
Exactly three days after the balsamic win over RC Celta de Vigo, Real Betis had to travel to the nation's capital to face the powerful Real Madrid. The target for the men managed by Rubi was clear, although quite difficult, to continue with the positive streak started on Wednesday.
THe Green and Whites stepped onto the pitch with some changes in the tactical formation, with three centre backs and Marc Bartra actind as defensive midfielder. Real Madrid started off better, with a suffocating pressing that made Betis struggle for a bit. In this way, Benzema had the first of the game, but Robles made a good save to his effort. A few minutes later, Hazard scored, but the goal was disallowed after the VAR checked the play. This made Betis react and grow.
The Green and Whites began to found their spot on the pitch, shook off the rival's control and started to play on the other side of the pitch. The first chance was for Fekir, whose shot from outside the box wnet wide. Same outcome for Bartra following an assist from Guardado. Canales also looked for it, but his shot took a deflection on Loren and went over the bar. Real Madrid, seeing that Betis were now compromising the score, gave another push trying to score.
The best chance was for Ramos, who received a pass alone inside the area. However, Robles made another great save to deny him. At this point, the game was open and goals could come on either end. Betis were defending fiercely and the whites were getting frustrated. The best occasion in the game was for Loren, who tried to take Courtois by surprise from midfield, but the Belgian keeper touched with his fingertips to avoid the goal.
After half time, the plot did not change and Betis came on with the same idea. Álex Moreno had the first of the second half with a strong shot that Courtois deflected. Real Madrid replied with two good chances from Rodrygo and Mendy. The latter made a run alone towards the goal but missed the target.
Fekir answered soon afterwards, and then it was Emerson who tried from outside the box. The last one was for Vinicius, who found himself alone in front of Robles, but the keeper wore again his superhero cape and saved a point for the ream.
Now, focused on El Gran Derbi.
Real Madrid: Courtois, Carvajal, Ramos, Varane, Mendy, Casemiro, Kroos, Modric, Hazrd, Rodrygo (Vinicius, 64'), Benzema (Jovic, 82'). Booked: Casemiro, Mendy.
Real Betis: Joel Robles, Emerson, Mandi, Feddal, Sidnei, Álex Moreno (Barragán, 93'), Bartra, Guardado, Canales, Fekir (Ismael, 95'), Loren (Borja Iglesias, 73'). Booked: Bartra, Robles, Feddal, Guardado.
Referee: José María Sánchez Martínez.