Real Betis - Athletic Club

Athletic Club and Real Betis played out a goalless draw at the Benito Villamarín on the Lions’ return to LaLiga action.

Athletic’s best chances came in the final period, with Unai López and Raúl García forcing Claudio Bravo into action with powerful shots. Rulo also had an effort ruled out for offside, while Asier Villalibre hit the crossbar in the 91st minute.

The home side played with ten men from the 11th minute onwards after Fekir received a straight red.

The Bilbainos were back in Seville after the Copa upsets, and there were several changes to the starting line-up due to injuries, including Iñigo Martínez who fell ill in the morning.

The Lions had the first meaningful chance of the encounter in the third minute, Bravo saving a powerful effort by Jon Morcillo from a tight angle on the left.

Athletic were given an early advantage when Betis’ Fekir was dismissed for a reckless challenge on Unai Vencedor. The Lions began to dominate the match and patiently probed for an opener.

Betis gave the Rojiblancos a couple of frights at the beginning of the second half. Centre-back Mandi had a goal disallowed for offside and a lethal Emerson cross was deflected onto the woodwork.

Los Leones struggled to find space and did not seriously threaten until two powerful, long-range shots from Unai López and Raúl García were well saved by Bravo.

Rulo found the back of the net a few minutes later, but he was in an offside position. Marcelino’s men went all out, but could not find the winning goal.

Villalibre hit the crossbar after Unai López launched a counter-attack. Unai Simon, who had a quiet night, made a great save just before the whistle to deny Lainez.