In the battle between the league champions and cup winners, the two teams kept each other’s honor before kick-off, earning a warm applause from the crowd.

Marcelo received warm respect in his last home game. He was greeted with a standing ovation when he entered, and he received the captain’s armband from Karim Benzema.

– One of the great footballers saying goodbye, one of the best defenders in the world, says coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Isco is also honoured, but there is no place in the squad for Gareth Bale, whose contract is also running out.

– He wanted to say goodbye to the fans, but he wasn’t ready to fight. “He has one last chance, because I think Bale will be ready for the Champions League final,” said Ancelotti.

Big opportunities

In an unlucky game, the capital team had a great chance to set up their 27th win in 38 league games when Karim Benzema and Rodrygo produced a giant double in the 51st minute, but the visitors refused.

Dani Carvajal played on the edge and hit angled at Benzema, who fired in from a good position, but goalkeeper Rui Silva got in the way. A return to Rodrygo, but strong pressure from Marc Bartra did not get the finish between the posts.

Seven minutes from full time, Benzema brushed Rodrygo’s post past the opposition and fired from the corner of the box, but only over the net.

Joaquin is approaching

With 87 minutes played, Betis could have brought this one home for Joaquin as he struck down the left, but his hook ball went a little too high. The 40-year-old was substituted for his 600th game in La Liga.

In another match, already relegated Levante won 4-2 away against Rayo Vallecano.

Real Madrid meet Liverpool in the Champions League final at the Stade de France north of Paris on Saturday 28 May.