Match overview

The first half was a cautious affair, with Feyenoord seeing more of the ball but struggling to break down Betis’ compact defensive block. The hosts looked dangerous on the counter and created the better clear-cut chances before the interval, though neither goalkeeper was seriously tested until after the break.

The breakthrough came in the 64th minute when Abde Ezzalzouli finished a rapid Betis counterattack, calmly slotting past the goalkeeper after being released into space on the left. Feyenoord thought they had equalised in the 73rd minute, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review for an offside in the build-up. Betis then managed the closing stages with maturity to claim all three points.

Key moments

• 64’ — Abde Ezzalzouli scores the only goal of the game on the counterattack.
• 73’ — Feyenoord’s equaliser is ruled out after a VAR check for offside.
• 86’ — Betis goalkeeper makes a crucial save to deny Feyenoord a late leveller.

Tactical story

Betis set up with a deep and narrow defensive shape, inviting Feyenoord to play around them rather than through them. The hosts’ midfield worked hard to close central spaces, and their wide players tracked back diligently. That approach limited Feyenoord to mostly speculative efforts from distance.

Feyenoord dominated possession and pushed their full-backs high, but they lacked precision in the final third. Their best moments came from set pieces and crosses into the box, yet Betis defended those situations with composure. The Spanish side’s willingness to counter at speed ultimately made the difference.

Standout players

Abde Ezzalzouli was Betis’ match-winner, combining intelligent movement with a composed finish. Pablo Fornals helped control the tempo in midfield, while the Betis goalkeeper delivered a late save that proved just as valuable as the goal. For Feyenoord, the midfield anchor and left-sided attacker were the most persistent threats, but they could not find a way through.

Season impact

The victory gives Betis a valuable three points in the Champions League league phase and strengthens their position in the standings. Feyenoord will rue their missed opportunities and the disallowed goal, but their overall performance suggested they can remain competitive in the campaign. For Betis, the win is a platform to build on ahead of a demanding run of fixtures.

Match stats

• Possession: Real Betis 43% — Feyenoord 57%
• Shots: Real Betis 10 — Feyenoord 14
• Shots on target: Real Betis 4 — Feyenoord 3
• Corners: Real Betis 3 — Feyenoord 7