Real Madrid title defence hopes dented with Betis draw

Real Madrid’s French forward Karim Benzema (back) controls the ball during the Spanish League football match between Real Betis and Real Madrid CF at the Benito Villamarin stadium in Seville on March 5, 2023. (Photo by CRISTINA QUICLER / AFP)

Real Madrid stumbled to a damaging 0-0 draw at Real Betis on Sunday, leaving them nine points behind leaders Barcelona in the Liga title race.

After the Catalans beat Valencia 1-0 earlier to extend their lead, Madrid needed to win at the Benito Villamarin to maintain the seven-point deficit they started the weekend with.

Reigning Spanish champions Madrid forged the better openings and turned the screw in the final stages, but could not find the goal they needed to stay as close as possible on Barcelona’s tail.

Karim Benzema had a free-kick strike disallowed for a handball by team-mate Antonio Rudiger, while Betis goalkeeper Claudio Bravo made fine saves to deny the French forward and Vinicius Junior.

Thibaut Courtois was also forced into two superb stops by Betis who showed why they are in contention for a Champions League place next season with a hearty performance.

“We lacked a bit of accuracy in the final third, the last pass to create clearer chances and we don’t leave here happy, at all,” Madrid defender Lucas Vazquez told Movistar.

“No (the league is not lost), we’re in March, we know it is complicated and we will fight until the end because we truly believe that we can turn it around.”

Carlo Ancelotti set up in a 4-4-2 with Vinicius and Fede Valverde on the wings, with Rodrygo partnering Benzema up front.

Betis were missing injured playmakers Nabil Fekir and Sergio Canales, although the latter should return to face Manchester United on Thursday in the Europa League.

Rodri Sanchez