Real Madrid blew the chance to go three points clear at the top of La Liga as Real Betis came from behind to win 2-1, with Isco scoring the crucial goal against his former club.
Los Blancos were in second, trailing Barcelona on goal difference and a point ahead of Atletico Madrid prior to kick-off, but with both title rivals yet to play this weekend, Madrid could find themselves in third and three points adrift of the summit come Sunday evening.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men started strongly at the Benito Villamarin Stadium and took the lead after 10 minutes as Ferland Mendy squared the ball beyond Adrian, teeing up Brahim Diaz for a tap-in.
The hosts grew into the game and deservedly equalised when Johnny Cardoso powered home a header from close range after being left unmarked at a corner.
Manuel Pellegrini’s men were the better team following the interval and took the lead nine minutes into the second half when former Madrid man and Betis Captain Isco converted from the spot after Antonio Rudiger clumsily brought down young winger Jesus Rodriguez.
The visitors were largely disappointing – struggling to create anything of note and lacking any sense of urgency as they searched for the equaliser.
Betis, meanwhile, could have extended their advantage when Antony picked out Cucho Hernandez inside the box, but after taking an excellent first touch, he dragged his effort wide from close range.
Manchester United loanee Antony, who was able to play after a successful appeal of his red card last weekend, impressed once again as he continued his excellent form since arriving in January.
Madrid, who were without Jude Bellingham as he served the second and final game of his suspension, perhaps had one eye on Tuesday, with the first leg of their UEFA Champions League tie with Diego Simeone’s Atletico looming.
They now have just one win in their last five league games and will be looking to turn their form around when they host Rayo Vallecano next weekend.
As for Betis, that is now three wins on the spin in the league and they move up into sixth, into the European places.
They too have a European first leg to contend with midweek as they host Guimaraes in the UEFA Conference League before they return to La Liga action with a home tie against Las Palmas.