Real Betis experienced a night of intense emotions by beating FCPorto 3‑2 in La Cartuja, ensuring their return to the group stage of the Champions League after a 21-year absence. The match, which was held in front of 67,117 fans, became a memorable episode for the Green and Whites, marked both by the comeback and the controversy surrounding Isco's goal.
The match began with Betis dominating, taking the lead thanks to a goal from Abde in the 23rd minute. The Spanish striker took advantage of a defensive error by Porto and put the visitors ahead. However, the Portuguese team reacted quickly, and in the 39th minute Gabri Veiga equalized the match, while Samu Aghehowa added another point for his team in the 54th minute, leaving the Betiseros with a 2‑1 deficit.
Coach Manuel Pellegrini wasted no time and ordered a change in strategy. In the 66th minute, Cucho Hernández scored a goal that reversed the situation, leaving Betis with a 2-2 lead. The comeback was completed when, in the 84th minute, Isco converted a penalty that sealed the victory for the green and white with a final score of 3‑2.
The victory was not without controversy. Isco's goal generated debate among fans and the media, as the referee's position and interpretation of the foul that gave rise to the penalty was questioned. Despite the controversy, the result was clear and Betis celebrated with its fans a victory that will mark a before and after in the club's recent history.
With this victory, Real Betis returns to the Champions League, which represents an important milestone for the club and its fans. The next step will be to face the rivals from the group stage, where they will have to maintain the consistency shown in La Cartuja to consolidate their position in the European competition.