Fiery Real Betis Defeats Sevilla in El Gran Derbi to Continue LaLiga Winning Streak

Real Betis secured their sixth consecutive victory in LaLiga, battling back to defeat Sevilla 2-1. This marks the first time since April 2018 that Los Verdiblancos have achieved such a feat, and they are now closely trailing fifth-placed Villarreal.

The match commenced at a frantic pace typical of this fierce rivalry. Sevilla had the first chance within the opening 10 minutes when Isaac Romero was set up by Albert Sambi Lokonga. Romero cut inside Diego Llorente, yet his shot was blocked by the former Leeds United defender.

Despite the early threat from Sevilla, Betis appeared the more dangerous side, with teenage winger Jesus Rodriguez proving to be their standout player.

However, the first blow came on 17 minutes when centre-back Loic Bade delivered a pinpoint long ball to Dodi Lukebakio. The winger held his composure, checking back to set up Ruben Vargas, who slammed home his second goal for Sevilla since joining from Augsburg in January.

Betis were quick to respond, and after a patient build-up, Pablo Fornals delivered a precise pass to Youssouf Sabaly. Sabaly’s delicate cross was met with a stunning volley from Johnny Cardoso, bringing the scores level.

Sevilla aimed to regroup and head into half-time on level terms, but in injury time of the first half, Betis swung the match in their favour. Rodriguez found Isco with a clever pass, and Isco deftly sent the ball into the path of Cucho Hernandez, who calmly finished past visiting goalkeeper Orjan Nyland.

Even facing adversity, Sevilla maintained their composed build-up play, remaining wary of Rodriguez’s threats. Isco came close to adding another assist from a floated free-kick, but Nyland made a superb save from Antony’s attempt.

Next, Cardoso tried his luck, curling a shot just wide, prompting Sevilla coach Garcia Pimienta to make his first substitutions, bringing on Saul and Akor Adams for Jose Angel Carmona and Romero.

However, these changes failed to alter the match dynamics—nor did Pimienta’s subsequent three substitutions—as Sevilla continued to struggle in front of goal. Apart from a heart-stopping near-miss when Adrian almost lost possession, Betis ultimately managed to control the game and secure the win in an electric atmosphere at Estadio Benito Villamarin.

This victory ended 11th-placed Sevilla’s 12-match unbeaten streak in El Gran Derbi (W7, D5) as they prepare to face off against title contenders Atletico Madrid next Sunday. In contrast, a buoyed Betis will face league leaders Barcelona the following day, confident that anything is possible.