Real Betis defeated Porto 3-2 in a thrilling UEFA Champions League match at La Cartuja, with goals from Ezzalzouli, Hernández, and a late Isco penalty.
Real Betis edge Porto in five-goal thriller
Real Betis delivered an absolute thriller at La Cartuja de Sevilla, defeating Porto 3-2 in a dramatic UEFA Champions League Matchday 2 encounter. The magnificent Seville stadium played host to an end-to-end spectacle where both teams traded heavy blows, but a late penalty and incredible home resilience ultimately sealed all three points for the Spanish side in front of an electric crowd.
Fast start after the break
The first half was a tense, tactical battle with both sides fighting hard for midfield control. Solid defending from both teams ensured the score remained goalless at halftime. However, the game burst into life immediately after the restart.
In the 47th minute, Abde Ezzalzouli broke the deadlock with a brilliant finish to give Betis the lead. Porto responded swiftly, turning the match on its head as Gabriel Veiga equalized in the 54th minute, followed by a sharp strike from Samu in the 61st minute to put the visitors ahead 2-1. See also: Barkley and Jackson star as Aston Villa thrash Fenerbahce 6-0
Isco penalty seals dramatic comeback
Trailing with less than twenty minutes remaining, Betis showed incredible character. Cucho Hernández leveled the score in the 74th minute with a clinical finish that reignited the home supporters.
The ultimate drama arrived in the 84th minute when Betis were awarded a penalty. Experienced playmaker Isco stepped up under immense pressure and calmly slotted the ball home, securing a memorable 3-2 victory.