On Saturday afternoon, Real Betis will host league leaders Real Madrid in a match against Sevilla.
The current iteration of Real Betis has a distinct Real Madrid feel to it. Former Madrid manager Manuel Pellegrini’s Betis are on a 10-game unbeaten run in La Liga, thanks to the dignified grace of Isco, a former star of the capital club.
Carlo Ancelotti’s visiting side have also been dominating in Spain’s top flight, with defeat to city rivals Atletico Madrid being the only blemish on their chances of staying top of the table. .
Here’s everything you need to know about this weekend’s meeting between the two in-form teams.
Real Betis vs Real Madrid H2H record (last 5 matches)
Current form (all competitions)
Country |
TV channels/live streams |
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England |
La Liga TV |
America |
ESPN+, ESPN Deportes |
Canada |
TSN5, TSN+ |
Pellegrini did not make many changes ahead of midweek’s Copa del Rey, when Betis will play fourth-tier Villanovense. A relatively strong side was deployed and by the 89th minute they were behind their opponents, but only goals from Abdesamad Ezarzuri and Borja Iglesias saved Betis from blushing and secured a 2-1 victory.
Given the number of absentees from the Andalusians, the range of rotation is limited. Claudio Bravo’s hamstring problem leaves Rui Silva as the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, while William Carvalho’s muscular injury deprives Pellegrini of a reliable midfield cornerstone. Ta.
Right-back Youssouf Sabari is doubtful due to a knee problem, while Hector Bellerin is suspended. Marc Bartra is unable to take his place due to an Achilles tendon problem, leaving a hole in Pellegrini’s back line.
Nabil Fekir, Betis’ talisman before Isco took over, suffered a setback on his return from long-term absence and the Frenchman could be ruled out until Christmas. Fellow forward Rodri has complained of physical discomfort and is doubtful for participation.
Expected lineup for Real Betis vs. Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Silver. Miranda, Pezzella, Riad, Abner. Rodriguez, Roca. Ruibal, Isco, Ezarzurri.Higelsias
Despite enduring the worst injury spate of the season, Real Madrid managed to win five straight games in all competitions.
Luka Modric has returned to training, but French duo Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Choameny will not feature in midfield again this year. Vinicius Junior is also on a similar recovery path, tentatively set to return in January.
Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao injured their anterior cruciate ligaments in the summer and will be fully available this season.
Dani Carvajal’s form has been cut short by a calf problem, while Alda Güler, who has remained largely under the radar, remains on the brink of making his long-awaited debut.
Real Madrid’s expected lineup against Real Betis (4-3-1-2):Lunin; Vazquez, Rudiger, Alaba, Mendy. Valverde, Close, Bellingham.Diaz; Josel Rodrigo
Those who rolled into the Estadio Benito Villamarín on Saturday afternoon in search of a goal may be disappointed. Three of the last five games between Betis and Madrid have ended in goalless draws.
If either team scores, Madrid is most likely to score. Only surprise package Girona have been more prolific in La Liga than Ancelotti’s side. Girona also boasts the best defensive record in the division.