Real Betis Vs Barcelona: Another Drama in Saudi Arabia
After a hard fought battle, Spain’s Real Betis and FC Barcelona have given us another exciting drama in the city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. It was a match to be remembered as Barcelona managed to come back from a two-goal deficit to draw with Betis 2-2 and secure their place in the Copa del Rey Quarterfinals.
The Initial Counter
Real Betis were the dominant team in the early part of the game, creating plenty of chances and finding the back of the net two times. The first goal came through Jesé’s shot from outside the box in the 13th minute, and the second was scored by Sergio Canales in the 23rd via a wonderful set-piece delivery. At this point, it looked like it would be a comfortable victory for the team coached by Quique Setién.
Barcelona’s Reset
Barcelona had other plans, however. Lionel Messi, who was surprisingly left by Ernesto Valverde on the bench, was subbed in the 38th minute of the first half, and the Argentinian made an immediate impact. With four minutes to go before the half-time break, Messi equalised for Barcelona with a sublime free kick.
Extra Time Drama
Real Betis and Barcelona both came out determined to take the win in the second half, trading chances back and forth and delivering some breathtaking plays. Neither side could find the winning goal, however, and the game was sent to extra time.
Barcelona continued their dominance throughout the extra period, and their hard work paid off with a penalty in the 111th minute. Messi stepped up to the spot and made no mistakes, sending the ball into the top corner to secure a draw for Barcelona, and their place in the Quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey.
Final Thoughts
Real Betis and Barcelona gave us another heartstopping match, with plenty of drama and amazing plays. In the end, it was the star power of Lionel Messi that secured the result for Barcelona, and the team now look forward to the Quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey.
The key points
- Real Betis opened the scoring with two goals in the first half.
- Lionel Messi equalised for Barcelona before the half-time break.
- The match was sent to extra time, and Barcelona managed to secure a draw and their place in the Quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey with a penalty.
- Lionel Messi was the star of the match, coming off the bench to score two important goals.