MATCH REPORT | Spectacular (1-4)
Phenomenal performance from Real Betis Balompié tonight in Barcelona, where they put four past RCD Espanyol. In spite of beginning trailing in the game, the team finished a fantastic comeback, showing great strength as a group and displaying great movements in attack. Borja Iglesias scored a brace, and Guido Rodríguez and Willian José also wrote their names in the score sheet.
Quite even in the first 45 minutes. In spite of Betis controlling and attacking more, and also having more chances, Espanyol put Betis' defence under pressure at some moments. In fact, the first goal was scored by the locals, just before the first 15 minutes. De Tomas found the net.
Real Betis reacted well and went for the tie right away. And they managed to do it so from the penalty spot. Borja Iglesias sent the ball to the top corner. Five minutes later, Fekir delivered a corner kick and Guido Rodríguez head the ball in, turning the score around.
In the second half, the team continued with the momentum. Eight minutes after the break Borja Iglesias found the net following an exquisite assist from Canales.
In spite of being ahead in the score, Betis continued controlling the game, but calmer. However, every time the team stole the ball, they unleashed a fantastic attack that created a lot of danger. This way, Fekir gave a great pass and Willian José finished in style. The fifth goal could have come, but the score did not move anymore.
RCD Espanyol: Diego López, Óscar Gil, Sergi Gómez, Calero (David López 46'), Pedrosa, Morlanes (Bare 69'), Darder, Melendo (Loren 60'), Aleix Vidal (Embarba 60'), Puado, De Tomás.
Goals: De Tomás (14').
Booked: Morlanes, De Tomás.
Sent-off: De Tomás.
Real Betis Balompié: Bravo, Sabaly, Pezzella (Víctor Ruiz 84'), Edgar, Álex Moreno, Guido Rodríguez, William (Guardado 84'), Canales (Camarasa 84'), Juanmi (Tello 58'), Fekir, Borja Iglesias (Willian José 73').
Goals: Iglesias (31', 53'), Guido Rodríguez (36'), Willian José (76')
Booked: Pezzella, Juanmi, Iglesias, Carvalho.
Referee: Javier Alberola Rojas.