Real Madrid Suffer First La Liga Defeat as Mbappé Misses Penalty Against Betis
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Real Madrid suffered their first La Liga defeat of the 2026-27 season on Friday, losing 0-1 to Real Betis at the Estadio Benito Villamarín. The match was decided by a single goal from Betis striker Trebélord in the 81st minute, while Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé squandered a stoppage-time penalty that would have salvaged a point for the visitors. The loss marked Portuguese manager José Mourinho's first defeat since returning to the club .
Key Points
- Betis forward Trebélord scored the only goal of the match in the 81st minute, converting a chance to give the home side a 1-0 victory
- Mbappé's penalty came after Vinícius Jr was fouled in the box during stoppage time, but the French striker's effort was saved by Betis goalkeeper Walles
- A major controversy arose as replays showed Betis defender Massamba appeared to enter the penalty area before Mbappé took the kick, yet VAR chose not to intervene
- Madrid dominated statistically with eight shots on target compared to Betis' three, and an expected goals (xG) value of 3.16 versus the hosts' 0.96
- Substitute Carlos Espío had a goal ruled out for offside in the 87th minute, with VAR confirming the decision
Why It Matters
The defeat ends Madrid's perfect three-match winning start to the La Liga season and raises questions about the team's ability to convert chances against deep-lying defences. Mourinho's uncharacteristically measured response to a contentious refereeing decision—breaking from his reputation for explosive post-match outbursts—suggests either a changed managerial approach or calculated diplomacy amid a gruelling title race .
The defeat ends Madrid's perfect three-match winning start to the La Liga season and raises questions about the team's ability to convert chances against deep-lying defences. Mourinho's uncharacteristically measured response to a contentious refereeing decision—breaking from his reputation for explosive post-match outbursts—suggests either a changed managerial approach or calculated diplomacy amid a gruelling title race .