Real Betis emerged victorious in a captivating pre-season friendly against Córdoba, securing a 4-3 win in a goal-laden encounter at the Estadio Municipal Nuevo El Arcángel on July 25, 2025. The match, part of the third edition of the Trofeo Puertas de Córdoba, provided plenty of excitement and highlighted both teams’ attacking prowess, despite some early issues with the stadium’s lighting.
Manuel Pellegrini’s Real Betis started the game with a recognizable lineup, featuring notable debuts for goalkeeper Álvaro Valles and winger Rodrigo Riquelme. Despite initial lighting problems at El Arcángel, which were later reported to be under investigation by Córdoba CF (Diario Córdoba), Betis quickly asserted their dominance. They created several clear opportunities before Cucho Hernández capitalized on a loose ball, powerfully putting his side ahead to open the scoring (ESPN Deportes, El Desmarque).
Córdoba, under the guidance of Iván Ania, showed resilience. Taking advantage of a momentary dip in Betis’ defensive intensity, former Sevilla player Pedro Ortiz found the equalizer with a touch of fortune (El Desmarque). However, Betis’ response was swift. Just three minutes later, Pablo Fornals restored their lead, ensuring Pellegrini’s side went into halftime with a provisional advantage (ESPN Deportes).
The second half saw Pellegrini introduce several changes, including the debut of Pau López in goal, along with Aitor Ruibal, Marc Bartra, and Sergi Altimira, aiming to maintain the team’s rhythm. Midfielder Isco Alarcón continued to impress, showcasing his magic with every touch and earning applause even from the Córdoba crowd (El Desmarque). Notably, Isco recently rejected an offer from Italy, reaffirming his commitment to Betis (El Desmarque).
Córdoba, however, refused to yield. Capitalizing on an error by Sergi Altimira, Dalisson netted their second equalizer in the 56th minute, once again leveling the score and adding to the match’s dramatic flair (Diario Córdoba). The game remained finely balanced until Cédric Bakambu, introduced as a substitute, made a decisive impact. In a short but impactful appearance, Bakambu scored a crucial brace, demonstrating intelligence, speed, and clinical finishing. He even hit the woodwork once, but his two goals ultimately secured the victory for Real Betis (El Desmarque). Córdoba managed to pull one back in stoppage time through Adri Fuentes, making the final score 4-3 (Diario Córdoba).
The match served as a valuable pre-season test for both teams. For Real Betis, the victory, while showcasing their attacking potential and the immediate impact of new signings and key players like Bakambu and Isco, also highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in defense, having conceded three goals (El Desmarque). Córdoba, despite the loss, demonstrated commendable fighting spirit and the ability to challenge a top-tier opponent. The focus for both clubs now shifts to refining their strategies and integrating new players as the 2025-2026 season approaches.
