Real Madrid beat Betis as VAR takes centre stage

Real Madrid edged out Real Betis 3-2 in an eventful game for their first win of the La Liga season on Saturday, thanks to a late Sergio Ramos penalty that was furiously protested by Betis. Photo: Marcelo Del Pozo/Reuters

Real Madrid edged out Real Betis 3-2 in an eventful game for their first win of the La Liga season on Saturday, thanks to a late Sergio Ramos penalty that was furiously protested by Betis. Photo: Marcelo Del Pozo/Reuters

Published Sep 27, 2020

Share

SEVILLE - Real Madrid edged out Real Betis 3-2 in an eventful game for their first win of the La Liga season on Saturday, thanks to a late Sergio Ramos penalty that was furiously protested by Betis.

Madrid captain Ramos again showed nerves of steel to chip into the net from the spot after a VAR review for a handball by Betis defender Marc Bartra, who appeared to have been pushed by Madrid forward Borja Mayoral.

Earlier in the second half, Betis defender Emerson was given a straight red card for a foul on Luka Jovic following a VAR review, while Madrid's equalising goal, given as an own goal by Emerson, was awarded after another VAR intervention ruled Karim Benzema had been onside in the build-up.

Uruguayan midfielder Federico Valverde had given the champions the lead in the 14th minute with a finish from close range after fine work by Benzema by the byline. But Betis struck twice in quick succession through Aissa Mandi and William Carvalho to take a 2-1 lead at halftime.

Reuters

Related Topics: