Real Madrid player ratings vs Real Betis: Jude Bellingham's brilliance not enough as Blancos made to pay for lack of cutting edge

Jude Bellingham was among the goals again — and served as his side's most apparent threat — but Real Madrid's lack of quality in crucial areas meant they had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Real Betis on Saturday. Bellingham's second effort was cancelled out by a wonder strike from Aitor Ruibal, as Madrid failed to open up their lead atop La Liga.

Los Blancos controlled proceedings in the first period, but never had a clear opening. Brahim Diaz saw a goal ruled out after Rodrygo, who was a menace on the left all afternoon, was judged offside in the build-up. Betis had their moments, too, as Andriy Lunin did well to deny Ayoze Perez, while Isco created problems against his former club.

Inevitably, though, Bellingham provided the opener in the second half. He started the move — winning the ball on the left wing — before a neat exchange with Brahim was finished off by the England midfielder for his 16th goal in all competitions so far this campaign.

Full-back Ruibal came up with an unlikely response for the home side, simply strolling into the Madrid third, before rifling a ball into the top corner. Isco could have won it against his former club in the 90th minute, too, but glanced a header onto the post — leaving the two sides to begrudgingly settle for a point apiece.

GOAL rates Real Madrid's players from Benito Villamarin...