Analysis The numbers behind the result
Betis punish Villarreal despite low possession
The scoreline flattered Real Betis slightly, but their clinical edge justified the victory. Villarreal dominated possession (62%) and created more shots on target (8 vs 7), yet Betis' 12 shots yielded a higher-quality threat overall. Their 20 shots inside the box, compared to Villarreal's 11, highlighted their focus on penetrating deeper areas. Gerard Moreno opened the scoring for Villarreal in the 29th minute after Buchanan's disallowed goal, but Betis responded swiftly with Cucho Hernández (39') and Natan (43') striking either side of halftime.
Betis were more efficient in transition, converting their chances despite a disjointed midfield. Villarreal's substitutions failed to shift momentum, with their attacking changes lacking impact. Betis' defensive block absorbed pressure effectively, restricting Villarreal to speculative efforts outside the box (3 shots). The visitors' resilience and sharp counterattacking proved decisive, with Hernández and Natan delivering crucial moments of quality.
The key stat? Betis' 20 shots inside the box, double Villarreal's tally, underscores their greater threat where it mattered most.