Barcelona match record-equalling start after chaotic win over Real Betis

Barcelona maintained their perfect start to the 2026-27 LaLiga season with a 5-2 victory over Real Betis, moving five points clear of Atletico Madrid before the upcoming El Clasico.

The result at La Cartuja gave Barcelona nine wins from nine matches and saw them equal the best start in LaLiga history, matching Real Madrid’s record from the 1968-69 campaign.

Lamine Yamal put the visitors ahead in the 10th minute with a spectacular strike from distance. Real Betis responded through Valentin Gomez, who levelled the contest in the 27th minute.

Barcelona regained the lead four minutes before the interval when Rodri rose above the defence to head in from a corner. Gabriel Jesus then extended their advantage early in the second half after being played through by Yamal.

Abde Ezzalzouli quickly reduced the deficit for Real Betis, but the hosts’ hopes of completing a comeback were severely damaged moments later. Midfielder Facundo Bernal was sent off for headbutting Yamal following a confrontation.

Eric Garcia restored Barcelona’s two-goal cushion in the 62nd minute, tapping in from close range after a goalkeeping mistake. Substitute Dani Olmo completed the scoring in the 81st minute with an excellent effort from outside the penalty area.

Baena settles tight Atletico contest

Atletico Madrid moved into second place after substitute Alex Baena scored in the 89th minute to secure a 1-0 away win against Espanyol.

The visitors controlled possession and created the greater number of chances, although Espanyol goalkeeper Angel Fortuno produced an outstanding display. Espanyol also threatened from set pieces, with Leandro Cabrera striking the crossbar during the first half.

The match appeared destined to finish level until Julian Alvarez created an opening for Baena by cutting in from the left wing. With one minute of normal time remaining, the Spanish midfielder drove a powerful shot into the net from just outside the area.

Villarreal and Elche share goalless draw

Villarreal and Elche played out a 0-0 draw at the Estadio de la Ceramica in a match that produced few clear opportunities.

Neither team managed to break the deadlock, with Villarreal remaining in mid-table and Elche still close to the bottom of the standings. Both sides took a point from a low-key contest.

Simon earns Athletic Club a point

Valencia were held to a goalless draw by Athletic Club at Mestalla despite recording more shots on goal.

Valencia adopted a counter-attacking approach and had 37% possession compared with Athletic Club’s 63%, but still finished with a 16-9 advantage in shots on goal.

Athletic Club goalkeeper Unai Simon was outstanding throughout and repeatedly denied the hosts, ensuring the visitors left with a point.