Okay, so I was super hyped for that Betis versus Athletic game yesterday. Like, honestly, I canceled plans just to watch it properly. Figured it’d be interesting to see which players actually matter in these matchups, you know? So I grabbed my laptop, opened a blank document, and went all-in. Here’s exactly what I did:
What I Actually Did While Watching
First, I watched the whole game live, no distractions. Like, phone was in another room, full focus. I kept two lists on my doc: one for Betis, one for Athletic. Every time a player did something that stood out – good or bad – I jotted it down. Didn’t overthink it. Stuff like:
- Fekir for Betis: That nutmeg in the first half? Made my jaw drop. Wrote “FEKIR – MAGIC FEET” instantly.
- Williams for Athletic: His speed burned Betis’ left back twice early on. My note: “WILLIAMS – LEFT BACK NIGHTMARE.”
- Guido Rodríguez: Broke up attacks like a brick wall. Simple note: “GUIDO – STEALS BALLS.”
Spotting the Difference-Makers
After halftime, I started noticing patterns. Williams was fast, yeah, but then Betis’ keeper Rui Silva saved his one-on-one shot. HUGE moment. Scribbled “RUI SILVA KILLS ATHLETIC HOPE.” Later, Fekir tried this fancy dribble in Athletic’s box, got dispossessed, and Athletic counter-attacked immediately. That led to their goal! My note was brutal: “FEKIR LOST BALL = GOAL CONCEDED.”
Also watched who disappeared. Expected big things from Canales for Betis, but dude was barely noticeable. Wrote: “CANALES – GHOST MODE??” Athletic’s midfielders felt more physical but kept giving the ball away cheaply.
Putting It All Together
When the final whistle blew, I scanned my messy notes. Made two lists:
- Impactful Players: Rui Silva (saves), Guido (defense), Fekir (created chances but also cost them), Williams (pace scared everyone).
- Underperformers: Canales (invisible), Athletic’s central midfield (turnover machines).
The biggest lesson? Difference-makers aren’t just the scorers or dribblers. Silva saving that point-blank shot was EVERY bit as important as Williams’ runs. And Fekir? Shows one player can be both brilliant and costly.
My Takeaway Mess
Honestly? This messy note-taking worked way better than scrolling stats later. Seeing actions live sticks in your brain. Betis lost focus when Fekir tried too much flair, Athletic lost it when their midfield gave gifts. Simple stuff. Next time any team plays, I’m slapping on my notes like this again. Raw notes beat perfect spreadsheets any day for spotting who really changes a game.
