Seville’s European night ended with Real Betis celebrating another Champions League victory, but Álvaro Fidalgo again watched from the bench. The Mexican international was unused as Manuel Pellegrini’s side beat Feyenoord 1-0, marking the eighth match this season in which he has not played.
Quick facts
- Real Betis defeated Feyenoord 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League.
- Isco scored the decisive penalty in the 59th minute.
- Fidalgo has played 125 of a possible 1,170 minutes in all competitions.
- Betis have won three straight Champions League matches and remain unbeaten.
- The Andalusian club have climbed to fifth place in the competition’s standings.
Fidalgo had featured against Barcelona last weekend, yet his involvement did not carry into the midweek fixture. He was named in Pellegrini’s squad but remained among the substitutes throughout the contest at the Benito Villamarín.
His season has been limited despite that recent appearance. In league football, he has been on the pitch for only six per cent of Betis’ available minutes and has not registered a goal contribution.
The lack of opportunities has increased the prospect of a December departure for the midfielder. Competition in Betis’ attacking midfield roles has left little room for regular minutes.
Feyenoord held firm through a goalless first half, even as Betis controlled much of the ball and repeatedly worked their way towards the visiting area. The breakthrough arrived after the interval, when Betis’ pressure led to a handball inside the Dutch side’s penalty area.
Isco took responsibility from the spot in the 59th minute and converted to give the home side the lead. It proved sufficient for a third consecutive European win.
Pellegrini nevertheless spoke warmly about Fidalgo’s contribution, insisting the player has adapted well since arriving. The Chilean coach pointed to the depth available in the same area of the pitch.
“Álvaro is a very good player and he has settled into the team very well,” Pellegrini said. “There are many important, high-quality players in that position: Pablo Fornals, Gio Lo Celso, Isco and Dani Ceballos. There is huge competition there, not only for Fidalgo but for everyone.”
