Former Gunner Hector Bellerin scored a big late goal for Real Betis against Real Madrid, all but ending the away side’s La Liga title chances.
Former Arsenal right-back Hector Bellerin hasn’t always been a starter for Real Betis this season, making the lineup in 18 of their 50 games in all competitions so far.
But the defender seems to be trusted in the big games, and he was handed a start against Real Madrid on Friday night.
The visitors from Madrid were desperate for a win to stay alive in the title race, having already lost a lot of ground on La Liga leaders Barcelona, and they took an early lead as Vinicius Junior pounced on a rebound for 1-0.
Yet Betis hung on and competed, outshooting their opponents 19 to 12 across the length of the match.
In the end, that pressure paid dividends, as Bellerin latched onto a loose ball in the 94th minute and placed a first-time finish into the net for 1-1.
The result leaves Real eight points adrift having played a game more than Barcelona, and their title chances appear to be at an end. Even a win in May’s El Clásico likely won’t be enough to get them back into contention.
Bellerin recently spoke to the media of his hopes for the remainder of the Premier League season, including an Arsenal title in May.
“I really hope so, it’s been a long time coming,” Bellerin said. “I think they’re doing a great job. I watch them a lot, lots of old teammates and I’m still a Gunner as well, deep inside.”
The interviewer then revealed he was a Spurs fan, and that he hopes the team don’t get relegated.
Bellerin responded with a smile: “Well, I can’t say the same.”
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