Osasuna salvaged a 1-1 draw against Real Betis at El Sadar, with Ante Budimir's penalty cancelling out Abdessamad Ezzalzouli's early opener.
Real Betis arrived seeking to consolidate their European qualification hopes. Osasuna aimed to maintain their comfortable mid-table standing and build on recent form. The stage was set for a competitive fixture on April 12, 2026.
Real Betis made a blistering start, taking the lead in the 7th minute. Abdessamad Ezzalzouli found space in the box and expertly guided his shot into the net. This silenced the home crowd early on.
The match quickly grew heated, with the referee issuing several yellow cards. Osasuna's Sergio Altimira and Aitor Catena were cautioned for fouls. Real Betis saw Hector Bellerin and Antony enter the book.
Osasuna pushed for an equalizer and found it in the 40th minute. Ante Budimir stepped up to convert a penalty, restoring parity after a foul inside the Betis area. The goal lifted the home side.
Just before the break, Osasuna defender Jorge Herrando also received a yellow card. Both teams headed into halftime level, reflecting a half filled with intense challenges and key moments.
The interval provided a crucial opportunity for both coaching staffs to adjust tactics. A more controlled and strategic second half was anticipated after the chaotic opening period.
The second 45 minutes saw Osasuna emerge with renewed vigour, eager to find a winning goal. They pressed higher, attempting to disrupt Betis's build-up play in midfield.
Real Betis remained resolute in defence, absorbing pressure and looking for counter-attacking opportunities. Their goalkeeper, Álvaro Valles, made three crucial saves to deny Osasuna.
The physicality continued, with Juan Cruz (Osasuna) and Cucho Hernandez (Real Betis) both booked in the 67th minute. Managers introduced fresh legs, hoping to unlock the tight contest.
Despite Osasuna's 11 total shots and four on target, they could not break the deadlock. Real Betis also failed to create many clear-cut chances, resulting in a stalemate at the final whistle.
Osasuna finished with a higher expected goals (xG) of 1.3, significantly more than Betis's 0.34. They also commanded 51% possession and registered more shots overall.
The 1-1 draw leaves Real Betis in fifth place in La Liga, maintaining their European charge. Osasuna sits comfortably in ninth, adding another point to their season tally.
