Real Madrid’s title ambitions took a significant hit as former Los Blancos playmaker Isco Alarcón masterminded a 2-1 comeback victory for Real Betis on Saturday.

Madrid started brightly, with Brahim Díaz opening the scoring, but Betis quickly responded through Isco’s pinpoint corner delivery, which Johnny Cardoso nodded home in the 34th minute.

The turning point came early in the second half when Isco linked up with Jesús Rodríguez, forcing Antonio Rüdiger into a clumsy challenge inside the box. The referee pointed to the spot, and Isco coolly converted the penalty in the 54th minute, completing Betis’ comeback and leaving Madrid reeling.

Isco left Madrid three years ago, having helped the Los Blancos win five Champions League titles before he lost his starting role and then struggled to get off the bench.

The 32-year-old midfielder was the most decisive player on the field at the Benito Villamarin, as he haunted his former side.

Speaking after the game, Isco said: “Madrid has the best players and a million different ways it can hurt you, so if it weren’t for the hard work of the entire team we wouldn’t have been able to do this.”

He then added that he was still “grateful” for his time at Madrid.

The Spanish playmaker also showed he has not been slowed down by a leg injury that cost him a spot on Spain’s European Championship side last summer. He is now looking forward to playing for Spain again.

“It is a dream of any player to play for his national team,” Isco said after the win. “I haven’t played for Spain in six, seven years, so of course I would like to.”