Buoyed by Real Madrid’s surprise defeat to Valencia, Barcelona flew out of the blocks in the battle of two in-form sides, requiring just seven minutes to take the lead through Gavi.
The former Betis academy player offered a muted celebration against his boyhood club after he drove a low shot into the bottom corner from Ferran Torres’ first-time through ball.
As it proved, Gavi’s first LaLiga goal since August 2023 gave the Blaugrana a narrow lead for just 10 minutes before Natan powered a header home from Giovani Lo Celso’s corner to restore parity.
Natan’s maiden LaLiga goal did little to alleviate the Barcelona pressure, with Torres diverting a gilt-edged chance just wide before Adrian made a strong stop to deny Lamine Yamal as Betis dug deep to survive an attacking onslaught.
The former Liverpool shot-stopper was required again in the opening stages of the second period, reacting well at his near post to keep out Jules Kounde’s left-footed strike.
Gavi then saw his fizzing shot deflect just inches wide of Adrian’s right post, as Hansi Flick’s charges continued to try and restore their advantage.
The Barcelona boss introduced several players in the second period in a bid to find a winner, including substitute appearances for Raphinha and Fermin Lopez.
The latter saw a late effort saved by Adrian, shortly before Wojciech Szczesny was forced into a rare piece of action to push away Natan’s ambitious long-range drive.
There was to be no dramatic winner for Los Verdiblancos, but they would have been more than satisfied with a draw that makes it seven league games without defeat.
While Betis move up to fifth, Barca missed out on the chance to put six points between themselves and Real Madrid, instead moving four points clear and maintaining their unbeaten record in 2025.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Natan (Real Betis)