Pellegrini Reflects on Valencia Draw and Team Performance

Real Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini voiced his frustration after his side surrendered two valuable points in a 1–1 draw with Valencia at Mestalla. Despite taking the lead deep into the second half, Betis conceded a late equalizer from a second-phase corner, missing out on a crucial away victory just before the November international break.

“It was an excellent match, played well by both teams,” Pellegrini told reporters. “The first half ended 0–0, but we had a clear chance in the fourth minute that could have changed the game. Valencia also created opportunities, which Álvaro Ruiz handled very well. In the second half, it was even, but although we managed to go ahead, a rebound from a corner allowed them to equalize.”

Set-Piece Lapses Continue to Haunt Betis

The Chilean manager acknowledged his team’s ongoing struggles defending dead-ball situations.

“Indeed, this makes two or three goals we’ve conceded recently from second balls after set pieces,” Pellegrini admitted. “It’s something we work on, but sometimes it comes down to fractions of a second — arriving late or losing focus. Being 1–0 up in the 86th minute and conceding like that leaves a bitter taste, though the point still helps us move forward.”

Missed Chance to Climb Higher

Reflecting on the draw, Pellegrini rued his team’s inability to secure the decisive second goal.

“The first half was balanced and entertaining for the fans. The second half was more controlled; we dominated possession and got closer to their goal. What we lacked was that finishing touch — perhaps a bit more luck or aggression to prevent their equalizer.”

Looking Ahead with Optimism

Despite the late disappointment, Pellegrini remains optimistic about Betis’s position across all competitions.

“We enter the break aligned with our objectives,” he said. “We’re competitive in the Copa del Rey, strong in the Europa League, and currently fifth in LaLiga. Our ambition is to climb higher, and we must demonstrate that same commitment after the break.”

The draw keeps Real Betis firmly in the European qualification mix, with Pellegrini’s immediate focus now on tightening defensive discipline before domestic action resumes.