Intro to go here, expanding on the headline & providing a summary of the story. It should be 350-400 characters long, split across two or three sentences, and include a full stop at the end.
Real Madrid suffered their first defeat of the season in a dramatic clash against Real Betis at La Cartuja, but the post-match talk has been dominated by a single moment of officiating controversy. Despite claims that Marc Bartra encroached on Kylian Mbappe's late penalty, the officials correctly stood by their decision not to order a retake.
Jose Mourinho has finalised his Real Madrid squad for the new Champions League campaign, making a ruthless call to exclude experienced defender Ferland Mendy. The French left-back continues to recover from a long-term muscle injury and has subsequently lost his place in the European squad to a highly rated teenage midfielder.
AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit has opened up on his decision to reject a summer transfer, with the highly rated youngster reportedly attracting strong interest from Real Madrid. Despite speculation over a blockbuster move to bolster Los Blancos midfield, Smit ultimately opted to remain in the Eredivisie following crucial behind-the-scenes talks with his current club.
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