La Liga leaders Barcelona saw their title charge slowed after Real Betis scored a last-gasp equalizer to secure a 2-2 draw in a pulsating encounter at the Benito Villamarín Stadium on Saturday.
Late Drama Denies Barca Full Points
Assane Diao’s 94th-minute strike stunned Barcelona, who thought Ferran Torres’ earlier goal had secured victory. The result leaves Barca five points clear of second-placed Real Madrid, who have two games in hand and the chance to close the gap further.
A Game of Twists
Barcelona initially took control when Robert Lewandowski converted Jules Kounde’s low cross in the 39th minute, registering his league-leading 16th goal of the season.
Betis responded energetically in the second half, winning a penalty after Frenkie de Jong inadvertently fouled Vitor Roque. Giovani Lo Celso coolly slotted home from the spot, leveling the match and setting the stage for a tense finale.
Barcelona regained the lead in the 86th minute when 17-year-old Lamine Yamal delivered a pinpoint cross for Torres, whose goal was confirmed after a VAR review overturned an offside call.
However, deep into stoppage time, Betis found their equalizer. Diao, unmarked in the box, capitalized on Aitor Ruibal’s cross, leaving Barca stunned.
What’s Next?
With the title race tightening, Barcelona will need to regroup quickly as Real Madrid and Girona threaten their position at the summit.
