Troy Parrott gives Betis the win over Madrid, Mourinho

The Irish striker Troy Parrott, who made his debut under José Mourinho on December 7, 2019 in the Premier League with Tottenham, scored yesterday the winning goal for Real Betis against Real Madrid, breaking a 35-year drought without a player of his nationality scoring against the Merengues.

Parrott became the first Irish footballer in Betis history to score against Madrid; the previous ones had been John Aldridge with Real Sociedad in the 1990/91 season and Michael Robinso with Osasuna in 1989/90. The photo of the moment bears the signature of Raúl Caro / EFE and Jordi Santamaría.

Mourinho Connection

Interestingly, the same Mourinho had introduced Parrott to professional football in 2019, when the Portuguese placed him in Tottenham's lineup against a team that included Giovani Lo Celso. Years later, the Irishman's goal marked Mourinho's first defeat in his second spell in charge of Real Madrid.

Moreover, Mourinho has lost three of his last five encounters against Betis, including yesterday's defeat and previous ones against Roma in the 2022/23 Europa League and another Madrid victory in 2012/13.

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Media Reaction

Spanish media described the feat as “Troy Parrott’s revenge on José Mourinho”, citing Estadio Deportivo. El Desmarque also praised Parrott and goalkeeper Álvaro Valles, calling the night historic.

SPORT gave the striker a rating of 9, highlighting his presence outside the box and his ability to capitalize on Courtois’s rebound.

Parrott played only 21 minutes, but in the 81st minute he collected the rebound from the goalkeeper’s shot and, without hesitation, sent it to the back of the net, securing three points for Betis.

The success fuels hope in Spain that young Irish talents can shine in LaLiga, and boosts Betis morale after a performance that combines courage and sacrifice.