Elche and Real Betis opened their 2025/26 La Liga campaigns with a 1-1 draw at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero, as Germán Valera’s late equaliser cancelled out Aitor Ruibal’s first-half strike. The result saw both sides take a point apiece in what proved to be a balanced contest.
Betis started with authority, dictating play through their midfield and pressing Elche high up the pitch. The early pressure soon paid off. In the 21st minute, Aitor Ruibal found space on the right and made no mistake with his finish, putting the Andalusian side ahead. The goal capped off a spell of dominance for the visitors, who looked in complete control during the opening stages.
With the lead secured, Betis settled into a rhythm, moving the ball with ease and forcing Elche to defend deep. Isco, operating as the creative hub, orchestrated attacks with his trademark vision, while Ruibal continued to pose problems down the flank. Despite their superiority, however, Betis were unable to get a second goal, and Elche hung on to keep themselves alive in the contest.
The home side returned after the interval with renewed energy, showing more ambition in attack. Although Betis continued to enjoy long spells on the ball, Elche gradually grew into the game, pressing higher and forcing their visitors onto the defensive. Their persistence almost paid off earlier, but it wasn’t until the final 10 minutes that the breakthrough arrived.
In the 81st minute, Germán Valera provided the decisive moment. The forward found space inside the box and finished coolly past the goalkeeper to bring Elche level.
The final stages were frantic, with both teams chasing a winner. Betis surged forward in search of redemption, while Elche sensed an opportunity to complete a dramatic turnaround. Despite their best efforts, neither side managed to carve out a clear-cut chance, and the game ended with the points shared.
