Abde gave Betis the lead just before halftime against Getafe, capping a week of controversy in Morocco. His right-footed finish came after a quick counter involving Deossa, Antony and Parrot, as scrutiny mounted off the field.
In the days before the match, Abde faced a backlash in Morocco. Betis had worn shirts supporting the people of Ceuta during a previous game at La Cerámica, prompting criticism and insults directed at the player. In a public statement, Abde clarified his position, refused to apologize for the gesture and said it was social, not political, and meant no disrespect to Moroccans. Reuters and several Spanish outlets reported that the controversy also brought threats against him in Morocco. The club’s initiative was described as a collective social action, rather than a personal political statement by Abde. Morocco’s national team coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, later backed him, saying there was no question about his commitment to Morocco and the national team.
After a tough first half, Abde scored his first goal of the season and put Betis in front. He celebrated in front of his family, who were watching from a box at La Cartuja.
The goal was briefly in doubt. VAR checked for a possible handball by Abde at the start of the move, but the goal stood after review. Betis fans celebrated as the team took the lead just before the break.
Abde had already impressed in the previous match against Villarreal. The episode also recalls other moments when sports and identity have overlapped in Spain, including the recent exhibition in Bilbao.
