Betis Return to Winning Ways and Set Sights on Top Spots

Real Betis returned to winning ways in La Liga with a 2-1 victory over Malaga at Seville's La Cartuja in round 11. It was a crucial triumph for the hosts, coming on the heels of a heavy 5-2 defeat to Barcelona and a goalless draw against Celta Vigo. The result puts Los Verdiblancos firmly back in contention for the European spots.

For Malaga, it was yet another setback as their search for a first league win of the season continues, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the table.

Betis dealt a decisive double blow late in the first half. Marc Bartra broke the deadlock in the 38th minute, heading home an Isco cross, before Pablo Fornals doubled the hosts' lead in first-half stoppage time.

Malaga halved the deficit in the 68th minute through Nino and carved out several opportunities to snatch an equaliser. However, Manuel Pellegrini's men also had chances to put the game to bed, with Ez Abde rattling the woodwork from a free-kick.