Real Betis struck deep in stoppage time to hold Barcelona to a 2-2 draw Saturday, with Assane Diao’s 94th-minute equalizer denying the league leaders a chance to extend their advantage over Real Madrid.
Barcelona, who could have moved seven points clear at the top, instead saw their lead limited to five points, with defending champions Real Madrid holding two games in hand. Robert Lewandowski had given Barcelona the lead in the 39th minute, converting Jules Kounde’s low cross for his 23rd goal of the season.
Giovani Lo Celso leveled from the penalty spot in the 68th minute after VAR confirmed Frenkie de Jong’s foul on Vitor Roque. Barcelona appeared to have secured victory through Ferran Torres’s 82nd-minute strike, set up by standout performer Lamine Yamal, but Diao’s late intervention turned Aitor Ruibal’s cross into the bottom corner.
The 17-year-old Yamal dominated proceedings with five successful dribbles and created what seemed to be the winning goal, continuing his breakthrough season. Despite Barcelona controlling 62% of possession, Betis recorded more shots on target (6-3) and eventually found their reward.
“Barcelona simply cannot believe it,” said the match announcer as Diao’s equalizer rippled the net, capturing the visitors’ dismay at dropping crucial points in the title race.
The result adds pressure to Barcelona’s upcoming Champions League visit to Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday, while Betis prepare for Thursday’s Conference League match at Petrocub.
