Atletico Madrid produced a controlled and disciplined performance to secure a 2-0 victory away to Real Betis on Monday night, moving up to fourth place in La Liga and delivering the ideal response to their 4-0 Champions League defeat to Arsenal last week.
Playing at La Cartuja, Betis’ temporary home ground, Diego Simeone’s side looked determined to reassert their defensive solidity. The visitors earned only their second clean sheet in nine matches across all competitions and registered their first away win of the season.
Atletico made an assured start, with Giuliano Simeone — the manager’s son — breaking the deadlock early on with a precise finish from the edge of the box. Alex Baena, a standout summer signing, doubled the advantage before half-time with a well-placed curling strike, marking his first goal for the club.
Goalkeeper Jan Oblak praised the team’s response after a challenging week, telling Movistar:
“This was an important, hard-fought win. I’m very happy. We need to keep this level, especially away from home — it was a great performance from everyone.”
Despite Betis’ improved second-half display, which included Abde Ezzalzouli striking the crossbar with a free-kick, Atletico’s defensive organization ensured a comfortable finish.
The result leaves Atletico eight points behind league leaders Real Madrid, the only team they have beaten so far this season, while Manuel Pellegrini’s Betis remain sixth, three points adrift of their opponents.
Reflecting on the defeat, Giovani Lo Celso admitted Betis lacked efficiency in key moments:
“We were missing that final touch in the attacking third. The effort was there, and the fans supported us throughout — even on a rainy Monday night. We just have to move forward and improve.”
