LaLiga: Athletic Club Keeps Perfect Start with 2-1 Win Over Real Betis

Bilbao's late winner secures 2-1 victory over Betis

Athletic Club's perfect start to the season continued with a 2-1 win over Real Betis, despite a late consolation goal for the visitors.

In a bizarre incident, Athletic's substitute goalkeeper Alex Padilla was sent off from the bench...

Athletic Club continued their perfect start to the LaLiga season with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Real Betis at the Estadio de La Cartuja. This marks their third consecutive win, a feat they last achieved in the 2009/10 season.

The visitors had the first significant opportunities, with Yuri Berchiche testing Athletic's defense with a long-range shot early in the first half. However, he dragged his effort wide of the post. Inaki Williams, known for his prolific scoring against Betis with six goals, was then presented with a clear chance but Alvaro Valles made a crucial save to deny him.

Betis gradually gained momentum in the game, with Pablo García coming closest to scoring before halftime. His shot from the edge of the box was deflected onto the post, a promising sign for the hosts. Betis carried this momentum into the second half, with Cucho Hernández particularly lively, firing two fierce strikes just wide and over.

FT: #RealBetisAthletic 1-2

🦁 The visitors hold out for an impressive away victory!#LALIGAEASPORTS pic.twitter.com/3JomnxX9lt

— LALIGA English (@LaLigaEN) August 31, 2025

Despite Betis's efforts, Bilbao took the lead against the run of play. Berchiche whipped in a cross from the flank, and Marc Bartra inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net, giving Bilbao the advantage.

After taking the lead, Bilbao's momentum shifted in their favor. The visitors started to create more scoring opportunities, with substitute Maroan Sannadi testing the goalkeeper with a shot at the near post.

Aitor Paredes ultimately sealed the victory for Bilbao, heading home a cross that was flicked on by an opposing defender. This decisive goal capped off a hard-fought win for Athletic Club.

Betis managed to pull a goal back in stoppage time, Cedric Bakambu rising highest to head the ball into the far corner. However, it was too little, too late, and the visitors were unable to salvage a draw.

In a bizarre incident, Athletic's substitute goalkeeper Alex Padilla was sent off from the bench, adding drama to the final moments of the match. Despite this, the visitors held firm and secured the win.

Post-Match Standings

The win marked a significant milestone for Athletic Club, as they ended a seven-game winless away run against Betis in LaLiga. The victory propelled them to second place in the standings, while Betis dropped to eighth after losing their unbeaten start to the season.