Spanish League

Real Betis vs Real Madrid from 18:30 LIVE

Despite Luka Modric's best efforts, Real Madrid lost the game in the end ...(Bild: AP/Jose Breton)

Real Madrid have suffered another setback in the Spanish title race! The Madrilenians lost 2-1 (1-1) at Betis Sevilla on Saturday with Austrian star David Alaba in the starting line-up and thus missed out on a temporary leap to the top of the table. City rivals Atletico Madrid took over thanks to a 1:0 home win over Athletic Bilbao. FC Barcelona can overtake Atletico again on Sunday.

Alaba was in the starting eleven for the second time since his recent adductor injury, but was substituted in the 59th minute. The Viennese's left thigh was bandaged. Real took an early lead, Brahim Diaz converting a cross from Ferland Mendy. Star striker Kylian Mbappe had initiated the move in the 10th minute.

Isco as match-winner for Betis
Former Real player Isco was the match-winner for Betis: Johnny Cardoso headed in the equalizer (34') from a corner by the 32-year-old. Isco himself scored the final goal from the penalty spot after a foul on Alaba's teammate Antonio Rüdiger (54').

Real have now won just one of their last five league games. On Tuesday, the defending champions will face Atletico in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 at home.

 The city rivals won thanks to a goal from Julian Alvarez (66) and took first place with 56 points ahead of Real and Barcelona (54 each). Barcelona will host Real Sociedad San Sebastian on Sunday.