Antony's first-half strike and a masterful defensive display secured a shock 1-0 victory for Real Betis against Atletico Madrid.
Real Betis snatched a stunning 1-0 victory against Atletico Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. Antony's first-half goal, coupled with an impenetrable defensive display, secured an unexpected win for the visitors.
Third-placed Atletico Madrid aimed to strengthen their La Liga title challenge against fifth-placed Real Betis. Diego Simeone's side entered the fixture with strong home form. Betis sought to maintain their European push, facing a historically difficult opponent.
The match began with Atletico Madrid asserting early control, dominating possession in the midfield. Real Betis, however, looked to exploit spaces on the counter-attack. The tension built quickly, leading to early fouls.
Atletico's M. Ruggeri received a yellow card in the 25th minute for a robust challenge. Moments later, Real Betis broke the deadlock. Antony slotted home in the 28th minute, clinically converting a chance after an incisive pass from Abdessamad Ezzalzouli.
The goal stunned the home crowd and galvanized Real Betis. Atletico pushed for an immediate equalizer, launching several attacks. However, the Betis defense held firm through the remainder of the half.
At half-time, Atletico Madrid trailed by a single goal, despite controlling much of the ball. Manager Diego Simeone likely demanded more incision and urgency from his attacking players. Real Betis, meanwhile, would have planned to absorb pressure and maintain their disciplined shape.
Atletico made three changes at the restart, introducing Thiago Almada and Julian Alvarez to inject fresh attacking impetus. They continued to press high up the pitch. Their efforts were met with resolute defending.
Another yellow card for Atletico's A. Lookman followed a foul in the 56th minute. The home side thought they had an equalizer in the 74th minute when Diego Llorente found the net. However, VAR intervened, disallowing the goal for offside, crushing Atletico's hopes.
With time running out, Atletico Madrid threw everything forward, making further attacking substitutions. Real Betis brought on fresh legs to bolster their backline and midfield. Goalkeeper Álvaro Valles remained a constant barrier.
Atletico Madrid finished with 65% possession and 10 total shots, five of which were on target. Real Betis, despite only 35% possession, created better opportunities, boasting an expected goals (xG) of 0.92 compared to Atletico's 0.71. Valles made 5 crucial saves.
This crucial 1-0 victory propels Real Betis closer to the European qualification spots in La Liga. For Atletico Madrid, it marks a significant setback in their pursuit of the league title, highlighting an uncharacteristic struggle to convert dominance into goals at home.
