MADRID, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Isco netted the winning goal as Betis claimed their first win in the Europa League with a 2-1 triumph at home against Sparta Prague.
The former Real Madrid midfielder scored a 78th-minute header following a cross from Guido Rodriguez, earning the southern Spanish team three vital points after losing their opening match to Glasgow Rangers.
Veljko Birmancevic stunned the Betis fans just two minutes into the game by weaving his way between the Betis central defenders and beating Rui Silva.
However, the lead lasted only six minutes before Betis' young talent, Assane Diao, netted his third goal in just three games, capitalizing on a grievous error from Sparta keeper Peter Vindahl, who failed to control a ball outside of his penalty area.
Sparta maintained more possession and created better chances in the first half, and Betis struggled to find their rhythm after the break. Yet, Isco's moment of brilliance was enough to secure a vital win in an evenly matched Group C.
Alexander Sorloth and veteran keeper Pepe Reina emerged as heroes when Villarreal clung to a 1-0 win at home against Stade Rennes, who likely deserved a point from their visit to Spain.
Sorloth propelled Villarreal ahead in the 35th minute with a stunning shot from outside the area, but it was Reina who salvaged the point for Villarreal with a last-minute penalty save.
Alfonso Pedraza was penalized in the 88th minute for pulling the shirt of Rennes midfielder Ludovic Blas. However, the VAR review dragged on for nearly five minutes, and when Martin Terrier finally took the shot, Reina guessed correctly to halt the ball and secure a crucial home win. ■
