Real Betis 0-0 Real Madrid: Carlo Ancelotti’s side drop more points in La Liga title race

Real Madrid were held to a 0-0 draw against Real Betis as they suffered another blow to their title hopes. In an entertaining game at Estadio Benito Villamarin, chances were few and far between as Betis defended well against a lively Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo on either Madrid flank.

Ad Karim Benzema had the ball in the net after his free-kick just outside the box cruelly deflected beyond Claudio Bravo and nestled into the top corner, but the goal was disallowed as the ball had spun off Antonio Rudiger’s arm rather than a Betis defender. TransfersHaaland's agent labels Real Madrid 'dreamland', Liverpool lead Mount chase — Paper Round03/03/2023 AT 00:10 Madrid posed the bigger threat in the first half, with Rodrygo and Vinicius especially causing problems down either flank, but the hosts defended well on numerous occasions.

Thibaut Courtois made a crucial save at the beginning of the second period, displaying a strong left hand to keep Borja Iglesias out from point-blank range. The next big chance fell to Madrid, but Rodrygo — just a few yards in front of goal — sent Valverde’s inviting cross over the bar.

Neither side were able to find a winner, Betis remained resilient and fought hard for a well-earned draw, keeping their first clean sheet in five matches. The result means Madrid are nine points behind league leaders Barcelona, while Betis sit just outside the top four, three points from the Champions League spots.

La Liga table La Liga fixtures/results La Liga top scorers TALKING POINT — ARE MADRID OUT OF THE TITLE RACE? They certainly have work to do. Carlo Ancelotti’s side are held to a goalless draw which means Los Blancos are now nine points behind league leaders Barcelona, with both teams having played the same