

The surprise pack of the Spanish season increased their advantage at the top of the La Liga standings to 45 points. Argentina centerback German Pezzella's rebound goal late in the second half helped Real Betis draw 1-1 with surprise La Liga leaders Girona on Thursday. Betis were superior throughout the game, dominated possession, and squandered two excellent early chances with Ayose Perez and Assane Diao squandering from close range.
After Brazilian winger Savinho was taken down by a diving tackle from Betis defender Aitor Ruibal, Ukrainian Artem Dovbyk converted the penalty in the 39th minute by wrongfooting the goalie with a neat finish to the right. The hosts equalized in the 88th minute, thanks to Pezzella's powerful drive from just inside the box, who took advantage of a lost ball in a packed area following a corner. Manuel Pellegrini's team is currently eighth in LaLiga.