Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has reacted to Real Madrid’s defeat by Real Betis, a result that leaves the two Spanish rivals level on nine points after the opening stages of the La Liga season.
Real Madrid were beaten away by Real Betis in the third round of the Spanish championship after failing to score at the Estadio Benito Villamarin. The only goal of the match came in the 81st minute, giving the home side victory and handing the visitors their first setback in the campaign.
Flick spoke about Real Madrid’s result following the match. The Barcelona manager’s comments came as his side moved to the top of the La Liga table, although Barcelona have played one game fewer than their main rivals.
Real Madrid currently occupy second place with nine points from four matches. Barcelona also have nine points, but their points total has been collected from three games, leaving them ahead of Real Madrid in the standings.
The defeat was decided late in the contest, with Real Betis scoring nine minutes before the end of normal time. Real Madrid were unable to respond and finished the away fixture without finding the net.
Barcelona will have the opportunity to extend their lead when they return to La Liga action on 6 September. Flick’s side are scheduled to visit Valencia in the fourth-round fixture, with kick-off set for 17:15 Moscow time.
The match will be Barcelona’s fourth league game of the season, while Real Madrid have already completed four matches. That difference in games played is reflected in the current table, where both teams have nine points but Barcelona remain in first position.
The result against Real Betis therefore gives added significance to Barcelona’s next fixture. A victory at Valencia would allow the leaders to strengthen their position, while Real Madrid will remain on nine points after their first four matches.
The Real Betis victory also prompted comments from Jose Mourinho, who accused the club’s players of simulation. No further details of those claims were provided in the source report.
For now, the main development at the top of La Liga is the close contest between the two clubs. Real Madrid’s inability to score in Seville, followed by Real Betis’ late winning goal, has left them second behind Barcelona despite the teams having the same number of points.
Flick’s response comes with Barcelona preparing for their meeting with Valencia, a match that will complete their fourth round of league action and clarify whether they can turn their game in hand into a greater advantage at the summit.