The Seville Derby, known as El Derbi Sevillano, is one of Spain’s most intense and passionate football rivalries, pitting Real Betis Balompié against Sevilla FC. This historic clash has seen numerous memorable moments, dramatic matches, and significant milestones. In this article, we delve into the timeline of encounters between these two Andalusian giants, focusing on their recent meetings and the evolving dynamics of this fierce rivalry.
Early Encounters and Historical Significance
The first official match between Real Betis and Sevilla FC occurred on February 8, 1915, ending in a 4–3 victory for Sevilla. However, the match was abandoned due to crowd disturbances, marking the beginning of a rivalry characterized by intense emotions and passionate fanbases. Over the years, both clubs have faced each other in various competitions, including La Liga, Copa del Rey, and European tournaments, with Sevilla FC generally holding the upper hand in terms of victories.
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Recent Encounters: A Shift in Momentum
March 30, 2025: Real Betis 2–1 Sevilla FC
In a thrilling encounter at the Benito Villamarín Stadium, Real Betis secured a 2–1 victory over Sevilla FC. Sevilla took an early lead through Rubén Vargas, but Real Betis responded with goals from Johnny Cardoso and Cucho Hernández, clinching their first La Liga derby win against Sevilla since 2018. This victory was particularly significant as it ended a long winless streak in league derbies and boosted Betis’ aspirations for European qualification.
October 6, 2024: Sevilla FC 1–0 Real Betis
In the reverse fixture at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium, Sevilla FC edged out Real Betis with a 1–0 win. The only goal of the match came from a penalty converted by Dodi Lukébakio in the 50th minute, following a handball by Betis’ Llorente. Despite a valiant effort from Betis, Sevilla managed to maintain their advantage, showcasing their resilience in this high-stakes encounter.
Statistical Overview
| Statistic | Real Betis | Sevilla FC |
|---|---|---|
| Total Matches Played | 141 | 141 |
| Wins | 40 | 65 |
| Draws | 36 | 35 |
| Losses | 65 | 40 |
| Goals Scored | 163 | 214 |
| Goals Conceded | 214 | 163 |
Memorable Moments
- Historic 22–0 Victory (1918): In a controversial Copa de Andalucía match, Sevilla FC defeated a depleted Betis side 22–0, marking the largest margin of victory in the derby’s history. Betis had fielded a youth team due to military service commitments of their regular players.
- The “Derbi del Palo” (2022): During a Copa del Rey match in 2022, Betis goalkeeper Toni Prats was struck by a thrown object, leading to the suspension of the game. This incident highlighted the intense emotions and sometimes volatile nature of the rivalry.
Future Outlook
As both clubs continue to compete at the highest levels of Spanish football, the Seville Derby remains a fixture of immense significance. With Real Betis aiming to build on their recent successes and Sevilla FC striving to reclaim their dominance, future encounters promise to deliver more excitement and drama. Fans can look forward to witnessing the next chapter in this storied rivalry.
FAQs
1. When was the first official Seville Derby played?
The first official match between Real Betis and Sevilla FC took place on February 8, 1915.
2. Which team has won more derbies?
Sevilla FC leads with 65 victories compared to Real Betis’ 40 wins in their 141 encounters.
3. What was the largest margin of victory in a derby?
Sevilla FC’s 22–0 win over Betis in 1918 holds the record for the largest margin of victory.
4. When did Real Betis last win a La Liga derby?
Real Betis’ last La Liga derby win was on March 30, 2025, with a 2–1 victory over Sevilla FC.
5. Where can I watch future Seville Derbies?
Future matches are typically broadcasted on sports networks such as ESPN Deportes and ESPN+, depending on regional availability.
The Seville Derby continues to captivate football fans worldwide with its rich history, passionate supporters, and thrilling encounters. As Real Betis and Sevilla FC prepare for their next showdown, anticipation builds for another chapter in this legendary rivalry.
