Barca drops points at Betis, squanders chance to extend lead at the top

Barcelona were held to 2-2 draw by Real Betis, courtesy of a last-gasp goal, as they twice squandered the lead.

The league leaders were unable to make it back-to-back victories in La Liga, despite leading at the end of regular time.

The Catalans took the lead in the 39th minute through a wonderful team effort. Dominating the play, Jules Kounde delivered a pinpoint cross to Robert Lewandowski, who converted to give Barca the lead.

Just before the hour mark, Betis managed to find themselves a deserved equaliser. Vitor Roque, a loaner from Barcelona, was fouled by Frenkie de Jong inside the penalty area, and Giovani Lo Celso scored from 12 yards to make it 1-1.

Barcelona took the lead again in the 82nd minute as Lamine Yamal’s outrageous through ball was finished off by Ferran Torres.

However, the hosts ensured Barca were denied the win as they equalised at stoppage time. Assane Diao struck in the 94th minute as both teams shared the points.

The result means Barca are five points above Real Madrid, who are yet to play and also still have a game on hand.