Parrott's Champions League debut sparks Betis comeback at Lille

Real Betis secured a 3-2 victory over ten-man Lille in the Champions League, keeping their hopes alive in the group stage. The Republic of Ireland striker and Dubliner Troy Parrott, on his debut in the competition, netted the decisive goal eight minutes after the break, confirming his impact just days after scoring against Real Madrid in La Liga.

Parrott's decisive strike

In the second half, the Dubliner latched onto a through ball from Rodrigo Riquelme, created space in the Lille box and fired a low shot past the outstretched leg of goalkeeper Berke Ozer. His goal arrived eight minutes after the interval and proved to be the match‑winner.

Bartra's brace and the red card

Betis defender Marc Bartra had already struck twice, one before and one after the break, nullifying goals from Ayase Ueda and Alexsandro Ribeiro. The 2‑2 deadlock was short‑lived, as three minutes after Parrott’s strike Ethan Mbappe was shown a red card, leaving Lille with ten men.

The first half saw Ayase Ueda put Lille ahead, only for Bartra to equalise before the break. Alexsandro Ribeiro restored Lille’s lead early in the second period, but Bartra’s second effort restored parity, setting the stage for Parrott’s decisive finish.

Parrott’s impact came just four days after he scored his inaugural Betis goal, a home winner against Real Madrid in La Liga, underscoring the Republic of Ireland striker’s rapid adaptation to Spanish football.

He started the opening league‑phase game of this season’s Champions League at the Stade Pierre‑Mauroy and completed the full 90 minutes plus stoppage time, demonstrating the manager’s confidence in the young forward.

The Champio competition now sees Betis back on the European stage after a two‑decade absence, holding out for victory on their return to the Champions League. Betis will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming group fixtures.