Morocco forward Abde Ezzalzouli scores as Real Betis secure emphatic 5-2 win

Morocco international Abde Ezzalzouli scored as Real Betis recovered from an Osasuna fightback to claim a 5-2 victory in La Liga on Sunday.

The winger netted Betis’ second goal in the 31st minute at La Cartuja, helping Manuel Pellegrini’s side establish a commanding first-half lead before the visitors threatened a comeback after the break.

Isco scored twice, while an own goal credited to Ante Budimir and a stoppage-time strike from substitute José Antonio Morante completed Betis’ five-goal haul.

The victory lifted Betis to third in the Spanish top flight, with 19 points from eight matches.

Ezzalzouli continues impressive form

Ezzalzouli started the match and played a key role in Betis’ attacking display, scoring his third league goal of the season.

Isco had put the hosts ahead from the penalty spot in the 10th minute before Betis won possession high up the pitch and launched a quick attack that ended with the Moroccan forward finding the net in the 31st minute.

The goal strengthened Betis’ grip on the contest and continued a productive spell for the 24-year-old, who also scored for Morocco in their recent 1-1 friendly draw with Mali.

His latest contribution further underlined his growing importance to Pellegrini’s attacking options as the season progresses.

Osasuna threaten comeback after the break

Betis extended their advantage three minutes into the second half, with the third goal credited to an own goal by Budimir, although Diego Llorente was also reported to have played a decisive role in the move.

Osasuna responded quickly, with Budimir scoring in the 51st minute before Raúl García struck five minutes later to reduce the deficit to 3-2.

The visitors’ two goals in quick succession raised the prospect of a comeback, but Betis restored their two-goal cushion in the 67th minute.

Isco capitalised on a loose ball inside the penalty area to score his second goal of the afternoon, easing the pressure on the hosts.

Morante seals Betis victory

Osasuna were unable to find another response, and Morante put the result beyond doubt deep into stoppage time.

The substitute scored only minutes after coming on for Ezzalzouli, who had remained on the pitch until the closing stages.

The 5-2 result strengthened Betis’ position among the leading teams in La Liga, moving them five points behind leaders Barcelona and one point ahead of Real Madrid, according to the supplied standings.