Moroccan Star Ezzalzouli Misses Crucial Penalty for Real Betis in Espanyol Match

A few minutes before half-time, Ez Abde managed to obtain an indisputable penalty, offering the opportunity for Real Betis to take the lead. As the Moroccan international, who had a remarkable game, was heading towards the penalty spot with the ball, he met Lo Celso, the penalty specialist since his arrival at Betis, who asked to be allowed to take it.

But in the end, it was the Moroccan who played this penalty that he failed to convert. "He was confident, he asked me and that’s it. I think the important thing is to highlight the unity of the group," said the former Tottenham player after the match, admitting he had given this opportunity to the Atlas Lion.

A decision that cannot be explained, according to coach Manuel Pellegrini who insisted in vain that the Argentine take this penalty. "It’s a decision that can’t be explained, especially considering Lo Celso’s form," Pellegrini said in the post-match press conference, before adding: "It won’t happen again."

The match ended with a one-goal victory for Betis. A goal scored by Lo Celso in the 85th minute, allowing his team to win the three precious points.