Discussion and sparring continue in Spain after Atletico Madrid refused to set up an honorary corridor for Real Madrid, crowned with the La Liga title, in the Madrid "derby" that takes place tonight, but Barcelona presented another model.
In yesterday's match between Real Betis and its guest Barcelona at the "Benito Villamarin" stadium, the latter set up an honorary corridor to congratulate the Andalusian team crowned - last month - with the King's Cup title by defeating Valencia on penalties.
Even coach Xavi stood in the honorary corridor and congratulated Manuel Pellegrini, the Chilean coach of Real Betis, in turn.
"We congratulated the Betis administration and his fans," Barca sports director Matteo Alemani said. "We will set up an honorary corridor as befits the champion."
Barcelona defender Jordi Alba scored a goal in stoppage time, to guide his team to a 2-1 victory over Betis in the 35th round of the League, and ensure qualification for the Champions League next season.
With Real Madrid winning the league title earlier, Barcelona is in second place with 69 points, 5 points behind third-placed Seville and fourth-placed Atletico Madrid, both of whom have one additional game.
Barcelona is close to occupying the second place and obtaining 3.4 million euros for participating in the Spanish Super Cup, which is being held in Saudi Arabia.
🤝 SPORTSMANSHIP
👏 Guard of Honor for the 2022 Copa del Rey champions.
Congratulations, @RealBetis_en!
pic.twitter.com/fGWeKNIIP0
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 7, 2022