Real Madrid's Unbeaten Start Ends with Defeat to Real Betis

Real Madrid’s perfect start to the league season collapsed in Seville on Friday night, and it happened with a sting that will linger.

Jose Mourinho’s side, unbeaten since his return to the Bernabéu and riding a three-game winning run in La Liga, were dragged into a street fight by Real Betis and left with nothing after a 1-0 defeat that felt as much about grit as it did about quality.

Parrott pounces, Courtois beaten

The decisive moment came when Betis, roared on at home, punched through a Madrid side that had flirted with danger all evening. Thibaut Courtois produced a strong save from a powerful header, only to see the rebound fall perfectly for newcomer Troy Parrott. The Irish striker reacted first, slamming the loose ball home and sending the stadium into chaos.

Courtois had done his part on the initial effort. It didn’t matter. Parrott, sharp and ruthless, made sure Betis’ big chance did not go begging.

From there, Madrid chased.

Mbappé’s late chance goes begging

Madrid never truly settled into their usual rhythm, but they still found a lifeline deep into stoppage time. Vinícius Júnior darted into the box and was chopped down by Natan, the referee pointing straight to the spot as Betis players protested in vain.

Up stepped Kylian Mbappé in the 95th minute, the script almost too obvious: star forward, last kick, unbeaten record on the line.

Álvaro Vallés tore it up.

The Betis goalkeeper, outstanding all night, guessed right and smothered Mbappé’s penalty, holding it cleanly and sparking wild celebrations. No rebound, no second chance. Just a statement save to seal a famous win.

Madrid, who had opened their La Liga campaign with three straight victories, walked off beaten for the first time this season, their momentum checked and their new era under Mourinho handed its first real jolt.