Real Betis continued their strong run with a 4-1 victory at Espanyol on Friday, cementing their grip on third place in the Spanish league.

It was Betis’ third consecutive victory in all competitions and fourth in their last five matches. The win moved Manuel Pellegrini’s side within five points of second-placed Sevilla, the city’s rivals who host Celta Vigo on Saturday. Leaders Real Madrid are nine points clear of Betis who start their home game against Elche on Sunday.

Betis are one of the hottest teams in Spain, having beaten their opponents 14-3 in their last five games.

The win left Betis seven points clear of fourth-placed Atlético Madrid, who hold the final Champions League spot. Reigning league champions Atlético are two games short of Betis.

Espanyol took the lead with a goal from Raúl de Tomás early in the game, but the visitors rallied with Borja Iglesias scoring twice and Guido Rodríguez and Willian José adding a goal each.

It was the second consecutive home defeat for Espanyol, who remained in 11th place.

Betis’ Benito Villamarín stadium has been closed for two matches after a Sevilla player was hit in the head by a plastic object thrown from the stands during a recent Copa del Rey game.

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