In the Spanish league on Saturday, Jude Bellingham scored once more for an injured Real Madrid in a 1-1 tie against Real Betis.

In the 53rd minute, the 20-year-old English midfielder scored the first goal by sliding under Betis goalkeeper Rui Silva after using his chest to cushion a clever pass from Brahim Díaz.

With a league-high 12 goals, Bellingham’s development into a clinical finisher has maintained Madrid’s top spot in the rankings. Compared to 14 goals in 42 games throughout the entire previous season for Borussia Dortmund, he has 16 goals in 18 games between the domestic tournament and the Champions League.

Betis returns immediately In the 66th minute, Aitor Ruibal equalised with a strong looping shot that went past custodian Andriy Lunin from beyond the right corner of the box.

There were late opportunities for both teams to steal the win. Isco Alarcón, a former Madrid playmaker, headed off the woodwork for Betis, while Joselu Mato, a Madrid replacement, missed the mark by inches.

Madrid is at the top of the standings following the draw, but Girona is only one point behind. On Sunday, the two Catalan teams will face one other at Barcelona, which is in third position.

Luka Modric was starting by Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti after the experienced midfielder missed two matches due to a thigh issue.

Betis was still ranked seventh. Benito Villamarín Stadium has seen nine straight league games without a loss for Manuel Pellegrini’s club.