Betis Executes the Derby: Fornals and Altimira Dismantle Sevilla in a Crunch Match of Brutal Intensity
Average Futmetrix Score: 49/100. Real Betis proved why they're climbing toward the title race, deploying lethal attacking football that exposed Sevilla's defensive vulnerabilities in a derby decided in 14 devastating minutes.
The Verdiblanco Offensive: Total Control
Real Betis arrived at this six-pointer with the hunger of a team on a roll. With just 35% possession, Pellegrini's side executed a surgical counterattack that left Sevilla disoriented. Pablo Fornals was the executioner in the 54th, breaking the initial balance with a goal that demoralised the hosts. But waiting wasn't in Betis's playbook. By the 68th, substitute Sergi Altimira sealed the verdict with a finish that buried Sevilla's hopes. Two goals in 14 minutes—a chasm between these two projects.
Sevilla: Possession Without Purpose
César Azpilicueta was a defensive rock for the hosts, winning every duel in sight, but his leadership and territorial dominance (65% possession) couldn't generate real danger. Sevilla fired nine times; only three found the target. Peque Fernández attempted to orchestrate from midfield with five key passes, yet Betis's defensive intensity suffocated each build-up. An xG of 0.37 tells the real story: Sevilla never had clear-cut chances.
The Red Card: Full Stop
In the 84th, Isaac Romero received a straight red for a foul—a decision that closed the debate definitively. Sevilla finished with ten men when they were already beaten. Yellow card accumulation (two for Sevilla, three for Betis) reflected an edgy contest, but Betis won where it mattered: in the final third.
Key Questions
How did Isaac Romero's red card impact the match?
It was symbolic punctuation. Sevilla was already 0-2 down; the 84th-minute expulsion merely confirmed their tactical and mental collapse.
How did substitute Sergi Altimira change the game?
He entered in the 63rd and scored in the 68th. His goal sealed victory and showcased Betis's attacking depth from the bench.
Why is this match rated 49/100?
Our Futmetrix algorithm analyzed intensity, balance, and stakes. The final score of 49/100 places this match in the "Average" category.
