Betis beat Porto to join the Champions League leaders

A penalty goal gave Betis victory over Porto in the 2026-27 Champions League. Pellegrini’s side share the top spot with PSG, Barça and Madrid after two thrilling wins: 3-2 against Lille and 3-2 against Porto, both featuring comebacks. Betis also displayed considerable physical energy and notable quality in possession.

Lamine Yamal told Valdano that he watches a lot of football. He follows every Premier League match, every PSG Champions League game, as well as Villarreal and Betis matches in La Liga. When speaking with former players such as Valdano or Henry, Yamal is willing to open up, offering a glimpse of how closely he studies goalkeepers, full-backs and opposing stars. His dribbling, shooting and decisions on the pitch appear to involve more thought than might first be apparent.

Pellegrini’s Betis has some similarities to the current Barça. The team controls matches through possession, with technically gifted players such as Isco and Fornals, then looks to attack vertically through three forwards who can beat defenders out wide and threaten the penalty area. Antony on the right and Abde on the left are described as two players of Barça-level quality. Through the middle, Cucho Hernández is portrayed as a hard-working goalscorer who might challenge for the Pichichi in an even stronger team.

However, the exertion Betis put in on Wednesday could give Barça an opportunity in the second half, according to this assessment of the upcoming match.