Chimy Ávila Shines in Betis’ Victory Over Villarreal, Reinforcing His Place in the Team

On Wednesday, Real Betis staged a remarkable comeback against Elche to secure a place in the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey. This victory presented Chimy Ávila with an opportunity to earn a spot in the starting lineup against Villarreal, stepping in ahead of Bakambu due to Cucho Hernández’s absence. Last night, facing Marcelino’s team, the Argentine demonstrated that he possesses the capability to offer much more to his squad than what has been witnessed since his arrival from Osasuna two years ago.

The ovation he received from the fans at La Cartuja during the second half, when he was substituted, resonated as a moment of redemption for Ávila. He left everything on the pitch, and while he did not replicate his scoring success from the previous cup match, his commitment, energy, ability to win challenges against defenders, and clever positioning contributed significantly to Pellegrini’s side’s victory over a team that had enjoyed an extraordinary first half of the season.

With statistics reflecting three duels won, three ball recoveries, two interceptions, three fouls drawn, and a near-miss shot from outside the box, Ávila seized the opportunity to play in his preferred central forward position in the absence of Cucho. He proved once again that, when freed from the confines of the wing, he can be instrumental in applying pressure during ball transitions, creating outlets for teammates in attack, and using his distinctive character to perplex opposing defenders.

The pathway to Getafe seems to have closed for him, as the Argentine currently sees no clear alternatives. We will have to wait a couple of weeks for the club’s definitive decision regarding Ávila’s future. However, he has only needed a few matches to demonstrate that his mindset remains focused on the verdiblanco colors. Following the Copa match on Wednesday, he expressed that he would not feel a sense of relief until he secures a title with Betis. Yesterday, he appeared to receive the backing of the fans to at least pursue this goal. Now he has several upcoming matches, until Cucho returns, to continue proving his desire to remain with the team and be an asset to Pellegrini and his squad.