Sevilla Triumphs in Andalusian Derby as El Haddadi Scores in 2-0 Win Over Betis

This match, counting for the 26th matchday of La Liga, kept all its promises. Julen Lopetegui’s team dominated their opponent from the start, with the opening goal in the 24th minute by Ivan Rakitic from the penalty spot.

Four minutes before the break, Moroccan international Munir El Haddadi, who had come on a few minutes earlier to replace the injured Papu Gomez, took advantage of a defensive error by Betis to recover the ball and place a low cross shot between Bravo and his left post.

Sergio Canales scored the consolation goal for Betis in stoppage time with a perfect free-kick from the edge of the box that went into the top left corner.

Sevilla moved up to 54 points in 26 games, eight ahead of third-placed Betis but still behind Real Madrid, who lead with 60. After a win in their last five league games, Sevilla needed the victory to maintain their ambitions of winning the title for the first time since 1946.