Real Betis clinched the top spot in Group C while Roma kept their hopes of qualification to the knockouts alive as the two sides drew 1-1 this evening in Spain.
Andrea Belotti’s second half goal canceled out Sergio Canales’ lucky first half finish as Jose Mourinho’s men drew level on four points with Ludogorets, who face HJK Helsinki this evening.
The result also marked the first points Manuel Pellegrini’s side have dropped at home this season, entering tonight with a perfect record in four matches in all competitions.
Although both teams each finished with just two shots on goal, the Giallorossi had multiple opportunities to find the back of the net, particularly in the opening half.
Just seconds before the break, Andrea Belotti headed home a perfect delivery from Leonardo Spinazzola. However, il Gallo was determined to have been marginally offside.
Belotti finally found the back of the net less than ten minutes into the second half.
The striker fired home from close range after the ball was put on a plate for him by midfielder Mady Camara.
There was tension after referee Anastasios Sidiropoulos was advised by VAR to review the goal for offsides but it ultimately stood.