Cédric Bakambu strikes again as Betis gain edge over Rayo

Cédric Bakambu kept his scoring momentum alive as Real Betis edged through a key La Liga encounter, with the veteran striker once again proving decisive against Rayo Vallecano on matchday 23.

Cédric Bakambu struck early to put Real Betis ahead in their league meeting with Rayo Vallecano, capitalising on a defensive lapse to underline his growing influence in La Liga this season.

The goal arrived in the 16th minute and set the tone for a performance that highlighted both Betis’ attacking intent and the striker’s instinct inside the penalty area.

Positioned alertly, the 34-year-old reacted quickest after the visiting goalkeeper failed to deal cleanly with a loose ball.

Bakambu’s simple finish rewarded Betis’ early pressure and demonstrated the sharp movement that has recently returned to his game.

The opener also reflected the side’s determination to impose themselves quickly in a fixture carrying weight in the mid-season standings.

That strike marked Bakambu’s third league goal of the campaign and his second in successive matches, a sequence that signals a timely upswing in form.

For Betis, the contribution is particularly significant as the club navigates a demanding phase of the season in which consistency in front of goal can shape broader ambitions.

The forward’s recent effectiveness offers renewed confidence to a team seeking rhythm and attacking balance.

While the contest itself was tightly contested, the early breakthrough provided a platform that allowed Betis to manage the tempo and maintain control during key passages of play.

As the season progresses, Bakambu’s ability to convert moments into goals could prove central to Betis’ objectives.

His latest contribution reinforces the sense that experience and positioning remain decisive tools, especially during the crucial run-in when margins are often slim and efficiency is paramount.