Troy Parrott Fires Real Betis to 3-2 Champions League Win at Lille
Real Betis began their Champions League return with a 3-2 win at Lille, overturning two first-half deficits before Troy Parrott’s low finish completed a memorable night in France.
Betis recover from two Lille leads
- Lille made the stronger opening and went ahead when Ayase Ueda, signed from Feyenoord during the summer, headed in from close distance after Ethan Mbappe supplied the cross. It was Ueda’s second goal in two matches.
- Betis responded through Marc Bartra, whose diving header converted Pablo Fornals’ driven delivery.
- The home side restored its advantage before the interval. Alexsandro met Gaetan Perrin’s corner with a header to put Lille back in front.
- Three minutes into the second half, Bartra scored again. The defender added a fine touch to Isco’s free-kick, directing it beyond Lille goalkeeper Berke Ozer.
- Parrott then put Betis in front for the first time, firing a low shot into the far corner to settle the contest.
- Lille’s task became more difficult soon afterwards when Ethan Mbappe, brother of Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe, was sent off for an apparent off-the-ball elbow on Natan.
Parrott continues fast Betis start
The decisive strike extended Parrott’s productive opening spell following his move to Betis last month. The former Tottenham forward had also scored the only goal in Friday’s domestic victory over Real Madrid.
Lille continued to press despite playing the closing stages with 10 men. The French side turned to attacking options from the bench, including ex-Arsenal and Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud, but could not force a late equaliser as Betis defended their advantage.
The result gives Betis an important early lift in Europe’s leading club competition and follows a resilient second-half display after Lille had twice taken control of the scoreline.
Next fixtures
- Betis return to Liga action away to Villarreal.
- Lille will attempt to respond in Ligue 1 when Troyes visit.
