Real Madrid’s 2-1 loss to Real Betis on March 1, 2025, has raised concerns over their attacking efficiency and overall performance in the La Liga title race. Despite an early goal from Brahim Díaz, Los Blancos couldn’t hold on to their lead, with key players like Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé struggling to make an impact.
Player Performance Analysis:
- Thibaut Courtois: The Belgian goalkeeper had a solid performance, making crucial saves, including stopping a dangerous header from Johnny Cardoso, which helped keep the scoreline from being worse.
- Luka Modrić: The Croatian midfielder, as usual, showed determination but was overshadowed by Betis’s Isco, unable to control the tempo or dictate play.
- Brahim Díaz: Though he scored Real Madrid’s only goal, Díaz’s influence diminished as the game wore on, and he was substituted early.
- Vinícius Júnior: The Brazilian winger struggled to break through Betis’s defense and failed to create any significant chances.
- Kylian Mbappé: The French forward had a disappointing performance, with poor ball control and losing several duels, making him largely invisible throughout the match.
Implications for the Title Race:
This defeat has serious implications for Real Madrid’s pursuit of the title. They are now tied with Barcelona at the top, both on 54 points, though Barcelona has a game in hand. Atlético Madrid’s 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao has moved them to the top of the table with 56 points, adding pressure to the competition.
Upcoming Challenges:
The loss highlights the need for Real Madrid to reassess their tactics, particularly ahead of a crucial Champions League match against Atlético Madrid. Manager Carlo Ancelotti’s decision-making, especially regarding substitutions, has been criticized, stressing the need for a more cohesive and effective game plan in the coming fixtures.
