Isco Inspires Remarkable Comeback as Real Betis Beat Porto 3-2

Real Betis pulled off a thrilling comeback to beat FC Porto 3-2 in a UEFA Champions League Group Stage classic that had everything – disallowed goals, yellow cards, and a dramatic late turnaround.

Real Betis Edge First Half Despite Early Porto Pressure

Both sides came flying out of the blocks at the Estadio Benito Villamarín, but Porto thought they’d taken the lead just before halftime when Borja Sainz found the net. However, jubilation turned to despair as VAR intervened, ruling out the goal and sparking furious protests from the Porto bench. Manager Francesco Farioli’s frustration earned him a yellow card in an intense finish to the first half.

Porto’s Second Half Comeback

The second half exploded into life as Real Betis striker Abde Ezzalzouli broke the deadlock in the 47th minute, coolly finishing after being played in by Fran García. Porto responded emphatically, with Gabri Veiga equalising in the 54th minute before substitute Samuel Aghehowa completed the turnaround with Porto’s second in the 61st minute.

Real Betis Mount Dramatic Late Comeback

With Porto seemingly in control, Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini rolled the dice, introducing Dani Ceballos and Cucho Hernández in the 62nd minute. The changes paid dividends as Hernández levelled in the 74th minute, setting up a grandstand finish. The drama reached fever pitch when VAR awarded Real Betis a penalty after Ángel Ortiz was fouled, and veteran midfielder Isco stepped up to calmly convert the decisive spot-kick in the 84th minute.

What This Means for Both Teams

This pulsating victory keeps Real Betis’ UEFA Champions League hopes alive after a rollercoaster Group Stage campaign. For Porto, it’s a bitter defeat after initially fighting back so impressively. Both sides will need to regroup quickly as the Group Stage reaches its climax.

Key Moments

47′ ⚽ Real Betis — Abde Ezzalzouli (assist: Francisco José García Torres)

54′ ⚽ FC Porto — Gabri Veiga

61′ ⚽ FC Porto — Samuel Aghehowa (assist: Eduardo Gabriel Aquino Cossa)

74′ ⚽ Real Betis — Cucho Hernández (assist: Antony Matheus dos Santos)

84′ ⚽ Real Betis — Isco