No shame in defeat
Valencia clinch Champions League berth after Betis loss
BARCELONA: Valencia were assured of a top-four finish in the Spanish League and a berth in next season’s Champions League after Real Betis lost at Athletic Bilbao 2-0.
The defeat left fifth-place Betis eight points behind Valencia in fourth with two games left for the Seville-based club.
Iker Munian headed in a cross from Inigo Lekeu for Bilbao’s open- er in the 76th minute, and Aritz Aduriz scored from a pass by Inaki Williams in stoppage time on Saturday.
Betis hit the crossbar twice when pressing for a late equaliser before Aduriz scored on the final kick of the match.
Valencia played later on Saturday knowing their mission was accomplished, and lost at regional rival Villarreal 1-0.
Mario Gaspar headed in Villarreal’s winner with four minutes left.
Valencia finished in 12th place the last two seasons, but rebounded under manager Marcelino Garcia Toral in this campaign.
“We have had a great season thanks to everyone, from the coaches to the staff, which made good signings,” Valencia midfielder Dani Parejo said. “Thanks to everyone, Valencia are back to where they should be.”
Champions Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid are also heading back to the Champions League next season.
Villarreal’s victory kept them on pace for a Europa League berth. — AP