Barcelona still in control but only just after draw with Real Betis

Barcelona missed a valuable opportunity to put significant daylight between themselves and Real Madrid at the top of La Liga after being held to a 1-1 draw by Real Betis on Saturday.

Hansi Flick’s side were expected to capitalise fully after their title rivals suffered a dramatic 2-1 defeat to Valencia earlier in the day.

However, a frustrating performance at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys scuppered their hopes of extending their advantage over Madrid to six points.

Barcelona made an encouraging start and took the lead after just seven minutes through Gavi, who finished coolly after a slick one-touch exchange involving Ferran Torres.

It was a special moment for the 20-year-old, who marked his 100th La Liga appearance with his third goal of the season.

However, the early breakthrough failed to settle the hosts. Betis responded quickly and were level within 10 minutes as centre-back Natan rose above Ronald Araujo to power in a header from a corner.

Despite enjoying more than 75 percent of possession, Barcelona failed to score a second goal as they were held at bay by a resolute Betis side and a goalkeeper in outstanding form.

Adrian San Miguel produced a series of excellent saves to frustrate the Catalan club throughout the second half.

Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Jules Kounde and Fermin Lopez were denied as Barcelona applied relentless pressure after the interval, but their finishing lacked composure when it mattered most.

After the match, Flick refused to be too critical of his side and instead stressed the importance of staying positive.

“One game less, one point more,” he said. “In the second half, we tried to get a better result. With the chances we created, we were not like normal, not so merciless. It happens.”

The manager also emphasised the physical strain his squad has endured over the past 10 days, noting the importance of rotation ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund.

Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Torres were given reduced minutes, while Inigo Martinez was rested completely.

Despite the pragmatic view, there is little doubt that Barcelona will feel they let Madrid off the hook.

The difference between a four-point and six-point gap could prove decisive with just eight rounds to go and an El Clasico still to come. Flick’s side are in control, but only just.