A Balanced End to the La Liga Season
2024-25 LaLiga season came to an exciting end as Real Betis and Valencia CF faced each other at Estadio Benito Villamarín on Friday, May 23, 2025. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after a competitive 90 minutes of football. While the result didn’t change much in the league standings, it was a proud performance from both sides. Fans at the stadium got to enjoy a solid football match with moments of excitement and great effort from the players.
More than 51,000 fans filled the stadium, creating an electric atmosphere. Although neither team was fighting for survival or the title, they played with passion and pride. Real Betis had already qualified for next season’s UEFA Europa League, and Valencia had successfully avoided relegation. But both teams gave their best to close the season on a high note.
Lineups and Key Players
Real Betis Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Rui Silva
- Defenders: Sabaly, Pezzella, Natan, Miranda
- Midfielders: Isco, Altimira, Fornals, Antony
- Forwards: Ayoze Pérez, Willian José
Valencia CF Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Giorgi Mamardashvili
- Defenders: Correia, Mosquera, Özkacar, Vázquez
- Midfielders: Guerra, Almeida, Pepelu, López
- Forwards: Hugo Duro, Rafa Mir
Antony stood out for Betis with his first-half goal, while Rafa Mir was key for Valencia with his equalizer. Both goalkeepers also made important saves that kept the score level.
First Half Real Betis Strike First
In the first half, Real Betis looked more comfortable and confident, especially playing at home. They controlled the ball well and kept pushing forward. Their hard work paid off in the 40th minute. Midfielder Antony received the ball outside the penalty box and took a powerful shot. Laliga is competitive game.The ball went past Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili and gave Betis a 1-0 lead. It was a beautiful goal and lifted the spirits of the home crowd just before halftime.
Betis kept pressing, using fast passing and wide play to create chances. Their midfielders and wingers combined nicely to keep the Valencia defense busy. The home team looked solid in the first 45 minutes and deserved their lead when they went into the break.
Second Half Valencia Fight Back with Equalizer
After the break, Valencia came out stronger. They looked more organized and began to control the midfield. Valencia passed the ball better and started pushing higher up the pitch. Their patience finally brought results in the 75th minute. Midfielder André Almeida made a clever through ball into the box. Rafa Mir made a great run and scored with a neat low shot into the corner of the net. It was a well-taken goal that tied the score at 1-1.
This goal changed the mood of the match. Betis, who had been cruising, now had to respond. The last 15 minutes became more intense as both teams pushed for a winner. But neither side could break the deadlock, and the match ended with both teams sharing the points.
Coach Reactions: Mixed Emotions for Both Sides
Real Betis Coach – Manuel Pellegrini:
“After the match, Pellegrini said he was proud of his team’s performance throughout the season. “We showed good character and control in the first half. Our goal was well-deserved. Although we wanted to win, I’m happy with how we finished the season and secured Europa League qualification,” he said. Pellegrini also praised the fans for their amazing support all season.”
Valencia Coach – Rubén Baraja:
“Valencia’s head coach, Rubén Baraja, praised his players for not giving up. “We didn’t start well, but I’m proud of how the team reacted in the second half. Rafa Mir’s goal was excellent. This draw shows the team’s fighting spirit. Finishing in 12th place gives us something to build on,” he explained. He also mentioned that the team will look to improve over the summer and prepare for a better season ahead.”
A Promising End and a Look Ahead
The 1-1 result was fair for both teams and a decent way to end the season. Real Betis finished the La Liga campaign in 6th place, which means they will play in the Europa League next season. This is a big achievement and shows the team is heading in the right direction. Their fans can now look forward to exciting European nights.
Valencia, on the other hand, ended the season in 12th place. While they missed out on European spots, avoiding relegation was a key success. Their performance in the second half of the season showed growth, and with a few good signings in the summer, they can aim higher next year.
As both teams now go into the off-season, fans will hope for a strong preseason, new players, and a fresh start in 2025-26. For now, they can look back at a solid finish and a memorable match on the final day.
