Summer signing Isco scored an 86th minute winner for Real Madrid against Real Betis to get Carlo Ancelotti’s reign off to a start with three points in La Liga.
There was much anticipation and excitement prior to kick off after Los Blancos secured their signings early, appointed two-time Champions League winner Carlo Ancelotti, and went unbeaten in pre-season.
Italian boss Ancelotti provided few surprises in his team selection other than the goalkeeping position. Diego Lopez started in goal ahead of Iker Casillas, meaning the World Cup winner hasn’t started a competitive fixture for Madrid in almost eight months.
Having watched title rivals Barcelona demolish Levante 7-0 earlier on, the nine-time European Cup winners couldn’t have made a worse start to their campaign when the fell behind. Jorge Molina latched onto a pass from Cedric to put the visitors ahead, much to the delight of the returning Pepe Mel – the former youth team player at Madrid now in charge of Betis.
Los Blancos slowly grew into the game however and began to create more chances. Their patience was rewarded when French striker Karim Benzema ran onto a lovely through ball from Isco to slot home with his left foot across the goal.
Isco, a 30 million euro signing from Malaga was the creative force and was always positive when in possession of the ball.
In the second half, Los Blancos dominated proceedings but were met with a resolute and determined Betis defence. That was until the 86th minute when Marcelo provided an inch-perfect cross to Isco to head home to secure the win.
PLEASE HELP US HANDLE THE DEFENCE VERY WELL AND LET US KEEP IT UP I THAT WAY