Barcelona take 2-1 half-time lead over Real Betis after late Rodri Hernandez header

Barcelona lead Real Betis 2-1 at half-time after goals from Lamine Yamal and Rodri Hernandez, with Valentin Gomez scoring for the hosts and Giovani Lo Celso having an effort ruled out.

Lamine Yamal opened the scoring after 15 minutes with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area which found the net. Barcelona then looked to control possession through short passes in midfield while continuing to search for further openings.

Real Betis responded with an equaliser from Gomez. Pablo Fornals delivered a cross into the penalty area and Gomez met it with a fine header, sending the ball beyond the goalkeeper.

The game was level after 30 minutes, although Barcelona had continued to create opportunities. Karim Adeyemi was caught offside, while Lamine Yamal produced an excellent pass to release him inside the penalty area. Adeyemi’s effort was saved successfully by the goalkeeper.

Yamal also came close to adding another when he beat a Real Betis defender on the right side of the box before shooting, but the goalkeeper made another important stop.

Barcelona’s other attempts included a powerful effort from outside the area by Espart, which went just wide. The visitors continued to see more of the ball in midfield, although their possession did not initially lead to a clear chance.

Real Betis briefly appeared to have taken the lead through Lo Celso, but the goal was ruled out. No further details were given about the decision.

Barcelona restored their advantage before the interval through Rodri Hernandez. Fermin Lopez sent a cross from a corner towards the near area and Rodri met it with his head, directing the ball into the net.

Real Betis also successfully dealt with another Barcelona corner when Llorente cleared the delivery from danger.

There were fouls involving Lamine Yamal and Jesus in midfield during the half. Barcelona’s players named in the match coverage included Fermin Lopez, Hector Bellerin and Jules Kounde, while Pablo Fornals and Valentin Gomez were involved in Real Betis’ attacking play.

The referee added seven minutes at the end of the first half.