Hector Bellerin’s Stoppage-Time Goal Secures Draw for Real Betis, Dealing Blow to Real Madrid’s Title Hopes

Hector Bellerin’s stoppage-time strike secured a 1-1 draw for Real Betis against Real Madrid on Friday, April 24, 2026, dealing another significant blow to Real Madrid’s LaLiga title aspirations.

The match, held at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville, saw Real Madrid take an early lead through Vinicius Junior in the 17th minute. After a long-range effort from Federico Valverde was parried by Betis goalkeeper Alvaro Valles, Vinicius reacted swiftly to slot the ball home inside the right post.

Real Madrid appeared to be in control heading into the break, with goalkeeper Andriy Lunin making several key saves to deny Cedric Bakambu and Antony before halftime. However, Betis gradually increased their pressure as the match progressed.

In the dying moments of the game, Bellerin latched onto a loose ball and fired past Lunin to equalize for the home side. The goal came deep into stoppage time, leaving Real Madrid players visibly dejected as they conceded a point that further diminished their chances of overhauling league leaders Barcelona.

With the draw, Real Madrid remain on 74 points, eight behind Barcelona, who lead the table on 82 points with a game in hand. Barcelona face Getafe on Saturday and could extend their advantage to 11 points should they win.