Real Betis Complete Dramatic 3-2 Comeback Against Porto as Isco Seals Champions League Victory

Seville, Spain – October 14, 2026 | UEFA Champions League

Real Betis delivered a memorable Champions League performance on Wednesday night, overturning a second-half deficit to defeat FC Porto 3-2 at Estadio La Cartuja in Seville.

An 84th-minute penalty from Spanish midfielder Isco completed a dramatic comeback for Manuel Pellegrini's side, who recovered from trailing 2-1 to secure their second consecutive victory in the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League league phase.

The five-goal encounter provided plenty of drama, with both teams enjoying periods of control before the Spanish hosts delivered the decisive moments.

Betis and Porto Battle Through Goalless First Half

The opening 45 minutes featured an entertaining exchange of attacking opportunities as Real Betis attempted to control possession while Porto looked dangerous on the counterattack.

Betis winger Antony created problems down the right flank, while midfielder Nelson Deossa threatened with efforts from distance.

Porto came close to breaking the deadlock when a powerful effort struck the crossbar and appeared to cross the goal line. However, a VAR review identified a handball in the build-up, ruling out the goal.

Despite several promising opportunities, the teams entered halftime with the score level at 0-0.

Abde Ezzalzouli Breaks the Deadlock

Real Betis made the perfect start to the second half when Moroccan international Abde Ezzalzouli opened the scoring in the 47th minute.

After receiving the ball outside the penalty area, Abde produced an outstanding curling finish that beat Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa and sent the home supporters into celebration.

The goal appeared to give Betis control of the contest, but Porto responded with impressive determination.

Porto Strike Twice to Turn the Match Around

Gabri Veiga brought Porto level in the 55th minute with a free kick that found its way past Betis goalkeeper Álvaro Valles.

The Portuguese visitors then completed their own turnaround just six minutes later.

Samu Aghehowa, introduced as a second-half substitute, combined brilliantly with Pepê before delivering a powerful finish to give Porto a 2-1 advantage in the 61st minute.

With momentum suddenly shifting toward the visitors, Real Betis faced the prospect of losing their first Champions League home fixture in more than two decades.

However, Pellegrini's substitutions would soon change the direction of the match.

Cucho Hernández Restores Hope for Real Betis

Colombian striker Cucho Hernández made an immediate impact after entering the match in the second half.

In the 74th minute, Antony created an opening with an attacking run before setting up Hernández, who finished accurately to restore parity at 2-2.

The equalizer transformed the atmosphere inside La Cartuja as Betis pushed forward in search of a winner.

Porto struggled to contain the increasing pressure, with Isco and Dani Ceballos helping the Spanish side regain control of midfield.

Isco Scores Winning Penalty in Dramatic Finale

The defining moment arrived late in the second half when Betis defender Ángel Ortiz was brought down inside the penalty area.

Following a VAR review, the referee awarded the hosts a penalty.

Isco stepped forward in the 84th minute and confidently converted from the spot, sending the home crowd into celebration and completing an extraordinary 3-2 comeback.

Porto continued searching for an equalizer during stoppage time, but goalkeeper Álvaro Valles produced a crucial save to preserve the victory.

The final whistle confirmed another important European result for Manuel Pellegrini's team.

Real Betis Continue Perfect Champions League Start

The victory moved Real Betis to six points from their opening two Champions League matches, strengthening their position in the league-phase standings.

It also marked a memorable return to European football's biggest club competition in front of their home supporters after an absence of more than 20 years.

For Porto, the defeat represented another frustrating European evening.

The Portuguese club remained without points after two matches, having previously suffered a 2-0 defeat against Manchester City in their opening Champions League fixture.

What Comes Next for Real Betis and Porto?

Real Betis will now look to maintain their impressive momentum as they prepare for another demanding period of domestic and European football.

Pellegrini will be particularly encouraged by his team's attacking resilience, the effectiveness of his substitutions and the leadership demonstrated by Isco during the closing stages.

Porto, meanwhile, must address the defensive mistakes that allowed Betis to regain control after the visitors had established a second-half advantage.

Despite producing two impressive goals, Francesco Farioli's team failed to protect their lead and left Seville empty-handed.

A Memorable European Night in Seville

Real Betis' 3-2 victory will be remembered as one of the most entertaining matches of the early Champions League campaign.

From Abde's outstanding opening goal to Porto's rapid response and Isco's decisive penalty, the encounter showcased the unpredictability and excitement of European football.

For the Spanish side, the result delivered more than three points. It reinforced their growing confidence and demonstrated their ability to compete under pressure against experienced European opposition.

With two victories from two matches, Real Betis have made a strong start to their latest Champions League adventure.