Betis stun Real Madrid with last-gasp winner in Youth Cup thriller
A dramatic 94th-minute header from Curro Macías sends Betis to the Youth Cup 'Final Four' after coming from behind to eliminate Real Madrid at Valdebebas.
Real Betis booked their spot in the Youth Cup ‘Final Four’ with a dramatic 94th-minute winner against Real Madrid in Valdebebas, turning around an early Madrid lead with goals at the death of both halves.
Last-gasp heartbreak for Madrid’s youngsters
What a proper game this was! Two top-drawer youth sides going toe-to-toe in a match that delivered everything you’d expect from Spain’s brightest talents. The quality on show was absolutely mint, with Real Madrid slightly more dominant but Betis refusing to be overawed at any point.
Dani Ceballos was spotted watching from the stands as 22 young ballers put on a show despite the challenging windy conditions at Valdebebas.
Madrid were first to threaten through Pol Durán, whose effort was saved by Betis keeper Manu. The Betis stopper was on top form, denying Barroso in a one-on-one before Carlos Díez also saw his chance thwarted.
The hosts’ left flank was particularly dangerous, with Lezcano and Ciria (a former Sevilla lad playing against his old rivals) causing all sorts of problems. It was no surprise when Madrid took the lead through Barroso, who pounced on a rebound after Manu couldn’t hold Ciria’s strike.
Controversial equaliser shifts momentum
Madrid’s lead lasted all of three minutes before controversy struck. Guille brought down Rafa Oya in the box, and while Oya’s penalty was saved by Illia, Rubén tucked away the rebound. Madrid were absolutely fuming as several Betis players had clearly encroached into the area before the kick was taken – it should’ve been an indirect free-kick to Madrid, but the goal stood despite protests.
The second half followed a similar pattern with Madrid controlling possession but creating fewer clear-cut chances. Betis grew into the game, looking more comfortable and enjoying longer spells with the ball, though genuine opportunities remained scarce as the match headed towards what seemed like extra time.
Madrid nearly snatched it late on when Emmanuel made a crucial block to deny Lezcano what looked like a certain goal, while Carlos Díez fired weakly at Manu after a promising run.
But football can be a right old dog and bone sometimes. With the clock showing 94 minutes, Betis won a free-kick wide on the flank, and Curro Macías rose brilliantly to power home a header that sent the visitors into dreamland and the ‘Final Four’.
For Madrid’s youngsters, it’s a bitter pill to swallow after their first-half dominance deserved more, but Betis showed the resilience and clinical edge that wins knockout competitions.