SOCCER: Bellerin strikes late as Betis hold Real Madrid in title blow

Hector Bellerin scored deep into stoppage time to earn Real Betis a 1-1 draw against Real Madrid in LaLiga on Friday, denting the hosts' fading title hopes with five games remaining.

Real Madrid took the lead in the 17th minute when Federico Valverde's drive from outside the box was spilled by Betis goalkeeper Alvaro Valles and Vinicius Jr reacted quickly to finish from close range.

However, Betis equalised in the 93rd minute as Ferland Mendy lost possession to Antony inside the box, sparking confusion in the area. The ball broke kindly for Bellerin, who drove a low effort through a crowd of players and into the net.

With a game in hand, Barcelona lead the standings with 82 points, eight clear of second-placed Real. Barca face Getafe on Saturday and could move 11 points clear, leaving Alvaro Arbeloa's side needing a miracle to keep Barca from sealing back-to-back titles.

-Fernando Kallas/Reuters