Atlético Madrid Suffers Rare Home Loss Against Resolute Real Betis

Antony's curling shot proves the difference as Betis secure first away win at Atleti in 14 years

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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After a 5-0 thrashing of Real Betis earlier in the week, Atlético Madrid were hoping to secure a second win against their opponents. However, Betis were able to bounce back and secure a 1-0 victory at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, with a curling shot from former Manchester United player Antony proving to be the difference. It's Atleti's first home defeat in 11 months.

Why it matters

This result is a setback for Atlético Madrid, who were looking to build momentum after their Copa del Rey victory. The loss at home is particularly surprising, as Atleti had not lost at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in nearly a year. The game also highlighted Betis' ability to adapt and secure a crucial away win against one of La Liga's top teams.

The details

Betis were able to stay compact defensively and limit Atlético's attacking opportunities. Antony's goal, which curled past goalkeeper Jan Oblak at the near post, proved to be the decisive moment. Atleti had a goal from Antoine Griezmann ruled out for offside in the second half, but were unable to find an equalizer despite their efforts.

  • Atlético Madrid suffered their first home defeat in 11 months.

The players

Jan Oblak

The Slovenian goalkeeper for Atlético Madrid who was caught off guard on Antony's goal.

Antony

The former Manchester United player who scored the winning goal for Real Betis with a curling shot.

Diego Simeone

The manager of Atlético Madrid who was hoping to secure a second win against Betis after their 5-0 victory earlier in the week.

Manuel Pellegrini

The manager of Real Betis who saw his team bounce back from their poor performance in the Copa del Rey to secure the away win.

Antoine Griezmann

The Atlético Madrid forward who had a goal ruled out for offside in the second half.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This result highlights the unpredictability of La Liga and the ability of teams like Real Betis to pull off surprise wins against the league's top clubs, even on the road. Atlético Madrid will need to regroup and find a way to bounce back from this setback as they look to maintain their position near the top of the table.