Real Madrid secured a solid 2-0 victory over Real Betis at the Santiago Bernabéu, a performance marked by efficiency and control. Despite not being at their most clinical, Madrid’s overall dominance across key metrics ensured that the result was never in doubt.
From the outset, Madrid controlled the game, holding 60% of possession and dictating the tempo with 312 passes in the opposition half compared to Betis’ 184. This territorial dominance was reflected in a 67.14% field tilt in favor of the home side, allowing them to keep Betis pinned back and under pressure for much of the match.
Despite creating only two big chances, Madrid were efficient in front of goal, converting their opportunities into a comfortable win. Their xG of 2.45 compared to Betis’ 0.57 highlights the quality of chances they could generate, even if they weren’t as prolific as they could have been. The difference in npxG (1.66 for Madrid and 0.57 for Betis) underlined their ability to create meaningful opportunities without relying on set pieces.
Defensively, Madrid were solid, winning 51 ground duels to Betis’ 37, and nine aerial duels to six. Their pressing game, as indicated by a PPDA of 8.07 compared to Betis’ 13.92, kept the visitors under constant pressure, limiting their time on the ball and reducing their attacking threat.
Antonio Rüdiger was a standout in defense, receiving the most passes (68) and completing 67 out of 74, providing a stable base from which Madrid built their attacks. Aurélien Tchouaméni, while effective in distribution with 33 progressive passes, again had a performance that, while statistically solid, didn’t entirely translate into a significant influence on the match’s flow.
Vinícius Júnior was the driving force in Madrid’s attack, leading the team with 11 progressive carries and contributing the highest xT at 0.45. His dynamic play on the left flank consistently troubled the Betis defense, creating spaces and opportunities for his teammates.
Despite their best efforts, Real Betis struggled to break through Madrid’s defensive lines. They managed just two shots on target, with an xG of 0.57, reflecting their inability to create high-quality chances. Abde Ezzalzouli’s six tackles were a bright spot for the visitors, but his defensive efforts were not enough to stem the tide of Madrid’s attacks.
In the end, Real Madrid’s control of the game and efficient finishing ensured a straightforward 2-0 victory, keeping their momentum going in La Liga.
