Rabat – Moroccan international Abde Ezzalzouli delivered an impressive individual performance for Real Betis against Barcelona, earning recognition from Spanish newspaper AS despite his team’s disappointing defeat.
In an article titled “Abde Ezzalzouli, the Light Amid the Madness,” the Spanish outlet highlighted the Moroccan winger’s determination, creativity, and leadership during a difficult evening for the Andalusian club.
According to AS, Ezzalzouli was one of the few bright spots in a match where Real Betis struggled to compete with Barcelona.
The newspaper also questioned coach Manuel Pellegrini’s decisions, particularly his choice to make eight changes to the starting lineup following Betis’ victory over Porto in the Champions League.
Several important players, including Isco, Antony, and Marc Bartra, were absent from the starting lineup, leaving Betis with a difficult challenge against the league leaders.
However, Ezzalzouli refused to let Barcelona’s superiority limit his performance.
The Moroccan winger repeatedly asked for the ball, challenged Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, and used his speed and dribbling skills to create attacking opportunities.
His determination and technical ability earned applause from the Betis supporters, who continued to encourage him throughout the match.
AS also recalled Ezzalzouli’s past with Barcelona, suggesting that the Moroccan was demonstrating the qualities that his former club had once questioned.
Ezzalzouli played a key role in Betis’ attack
Beyond his individual skills, Ezzalzouli contributed to both of Betis’ goals during the encounter.
The Moroccan international won the corner that led to his team’s first equalizer, while his individual quality helped create Betis’ second goal in the second half.
His attacking contributions briefly restored hope that the Andalusian side could secure a positive result against Barcelona.
Even when Betis found themselves playing with ten men following Facundo Bernal’s dismissal, Ezzalzouli continued to fight.
According to AS, the Moroccan winger looked toward the referee before turning to his teammates and shouting encouragement, reminding them that they were only one goal behind.
His reaction reflected his determination to keep Betis competitive despite the difficult circumstances.
The Spanish newspaper described Ezzalzouli as a player willing to take responsibility when his team needed him most.
Moroccan winger took responsibility in Isco’s absence
AS also examined the tactical decisions made by Pellegrini, particularly the introduction of Giovani Lo Celso, Dani Ceballos, and Pablo Fornals.
The newspaper suggested that these changes affected Betis’ usual balance, especially against a Barcelona side capable of dominating possession.
Without Isco directing the team’s attacking play, Ezzalzouli took on greater responsibility in moving the ball forward and creating chances.
The Moroccan international responded with another energetic performance, showing his ability to lead attacking efforts even when his teammates struggled.
Pablo Fornals also attempted to fill the creative gap left by Isco, moving into central positions and looking for opportunities to deliver decisive passes.
However, AS emphasized the difficulty of replacing a player with Isco’s influence in the Betis midfield.
Despite the defeat, Ezzalzouli’s display offered a positive sign for the Andalusian club.
His performance against his former team once again demonstrated his growing importance to Real Betis, particularly in matches where the team faces strong opposition.
