Real Betis Rise Despite Key Absentees in Girona Showdown
What a game it was at the Estadi Montilivi as Real Betis overcame Girona 3-1 in a thrilling La Liga clash, even while missing some big names from their squad. The match, which had plenty riding on it, especially for Betis in their push toward Champions League qualification, ended with the Verdiblancos coming out on top and inching closer to the top four.
Ahead of the game, all eyes were on the Betis squad announcement — and the headlines weren’t only about who was in, but more so who was missing. Four notable absentees were confirmed: Diego Llorente, Marc Roca, Chimy Ávila, and Ricardo Rodríguez. For fans hoping to see a full-strength side, this was definitely a blow. But despite those omissions, manager Manuel Pellegrini’s side proved once again that squad depth and tactical discipline can win the day.
Right from kickoff, Betis set the tone. Within just six minutes, Johnny Cardoso opened the scoring with a clinical header off an Isco-delivered corner. It was a dream start, and the energy only continued to build. Girona struggled to respond meaningfully for much of the first half, while Betis grew more confident with every possession.
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By the 37th minute, Romain Perraud’s pace and precision set up Antony beautifully, who finished with a composed volley. And before Girona could even regroup, Abde Ezzalzouli turned provider, finding Isco who marked his 33rd birthday in style with a well-timed header that made it 3-0 before halftime.
The second half saw Girona push forward, desperate to salvage something from the game. They came close a few times, with Portu and Tsygankov testing the Betis defense, but goalkeeper Adrian and defender Natan made key interventions to preserve the lead. Gazzaniga, on the other end, pulled off some impressive saves himself, but the damage had already been done.
Girona did manage to grab a late goal through Cristhian Stuani, bundling in from a corner, but it was little more than a consolation. The loss marks Girona’s tenth straight game without a win, a worrying trend that keeps them just three points above the relegation zone.
For Betis, this result is a massive confidence boost, especially considering they were just coming off a Europa Conference League semi-final qualification. It also keeps them firmly in the Champions League conversation, just a point away from the top four.
One of the standout performers, undoubtedly, was Isco. On his birthday, no less, he delivered both a goal and an assist and could’ve easily had more. The veteran playmaker continues to be a key figure in Betis’ push for European success.
Missing key players didn’t slow them down — if anything, it showcased the team’s resilience and quality across the board. Girona had their moments, but this was Betis’ night through and through.
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