Real Betis beats Malaga in heated La Liga match

Betis' Ruben Castro. (Angel Fernandez/AP)

SEVILLA, Spain — Midfielder Joaquin Sanchez headed in the only goal to give Real Betis a 1-0 win over Malaga in a heated Spanish league match on Friday.

A total of 10 yellow cards were shown at the Benito Villamarin Stadium in Seville, six to Malaga players and four to the hosts.

Sanchez, who left the field because of a deep cut on his forehead after a collision with an opponent, headed home from near the penalty spot midway through the first half.

Malaga’s best chances came from Uruguay defender Federico Ricca, who hit the woodwork once in each half.

Betis jumped up to eighth place with eight points, while Malaga dropped to 16th place with five.

League leader Real Madrid plays at Las Palmas on Saturday.

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