La Liga: Late Betis blow leaves Real Madrid title hopes fading

Real Madrid saw their La Liga title ambitions take another hit after conceding a stoppage-time equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Real Betis.

With five games remaining, Madrid now sit eight points behind leaders FC Barcelona, a gap that could stretch further depending on results elsewhere. The outcome significantly weakens their already slim chances of reclaiming the title.

Missed chances prove costly

Madrid made a strong start at Estadio La Cartuja, taking the lead in the 17th minute through Vinicius Junior, who reacted quickest after Federico Valverde’s long-range effort was spilled by goalkeeper Alvaro Valles.

Despite controlling large spells, Madrid failed to extend their advantage. Kylian Mbappe had a goal ruled out for offside and later missed a clear opportunity, while Jude Bellingham and Vinicius also squandered chances.

Betis gradually grew into the contest, forcing multiple saves from Andriy Lunin to stay in the game.

Late collapse compounds pressure

The hosts’ persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Hector Bellerin capitalised on defensive hesitation, punishing an error involving Ferland Mendy to fire home a dramatic equaliser.

The dropped points leave Madrid’s title hopes hanging by a thread. It was their fifth league draw of the season, a recurring issue that has undermined their consistency in the title race.

Season slipping away

Under Alvaro Arbeloa, Madrid are also out of the UEFA Champions League and risk ending the campaign without silverware, a scenario that would mark only their fifth trophyless season this century.

Recent reports suggest growing uncertainty around Arbeloa’s future, with club president Florentino Perez already considering managerial alternatives.

Madrid face RCD Espanyol next before a decisive El Clasico clash against Barcelona, but their title hopes now depend as much on rivals slipping up as on their own results.