Manuel Pellegrini’s continental-chasing Verdiblancos flattered to deceive for much of the first half against a Cadiz outfit who defied their underwhelming away form to frustrate their hosts.
It was the visitors who had the first opportunity of the game when Theo Bongonda’s powerful first-time effort from the edge of the area was tipped over the crossbar by the acrobatic Rui Silva.
A largely uneventful first half, which saw clear-cut chances hard to come by for both teams, was in desperate need of a spark, and with half-time approaching Betis’ Sergio Canales provided just that when he was shown a straight red card after losing possession and bringing down Ruben Sobrino, with referee Guillermo Cuadra Fernandez adjudging that he had prevented a goalscoring opportunity.
Spurred on and now sensing a real chance to cause an upset, Cadiz almost took immediate advantage before the break when the unmarked Chris Ramos headed agonisingly wide of the right post from inside the area.
With a spring in their step, Cadiz took complete control of the contest within 14 minutes of the restart.
First, they were awarded a penalty after Juan Miranda handled Bongonda’s free-kick, and Ruben Alcaraz made no mistake from the spot to give the Yellow Submarine the lead, before a quick counter-attack upfield ended with Bongonda squaring for Ramos to roll the ball into an empty net.
Already with a mountain to climb, the game was effectively ended a minute later when Betis were shown a second red card, as Aitor Ruibal displayed his frustration by recklessly swinging his arm out at Fali, leaving the referee with no option but to dismiss him.
Any hopes of a comeback were ended with this moment of madness, as Cadiz were able to comfortably see the game out and pick up a priceless three points which lifts them two places to 14th, while Betis remain sixth, occupying the final European spot.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Theo Bongonda (Cadiz)
