Real Betis vs Barcelona: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Published at :January 19, 2024 at 6:24 PM

Modified at :January 19, 2024 at 6:24 PM

Betis are looking to beat Barca for the first time since 2021

Real Betis are currently in a competitive position, vying for European spots and holding the seventh spot in the La Liga standings after completing 20 games. They recently halted a six-game winless streak, which included three defeats, by securing a 1-0 victory against Granada in their latest match. Despite their earlier participation in the Europa League, Real Betis finds themselves now contending in the UEFA Europa Conference League after finishing third in the Europa League group stage.

Barcelona are also struggling to replicate their best form in the ongoing LaLiga season, currently trailing leaders Girona by eight points. Their recent setback came in the form of a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the Supercopa de Espana final, further denting their confidence heading into the upcoming fixture against Real Betis.

Kick-Off:

Sunday, 21 January 2023 at 12:30 PM ET (11:00 PM IST)

Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin

Form:

Real Betis (in all competitions): D-D-L-L-W

Barcelona (in all competitions): W-W-W-L-W

Player to Watch

Isco (Real Betis)

In the upcoming match against Barcelona, keep an eye on Isco as the standout player for Real Betis. The Spanish midfielder, who has faced Barcelona 18 times during his stints with Real Madrid, Malaga, and currently Real Betis, has experienced varied results, winning five, losing 11, and drawing twice. Isco holds the position of Real Betis’ leading assist provider, contributing three assists in 19 LaLiga games alongside scoring three goals.

Pedri (Barcelona)

Midfielder Pedri emerges as a crucial player for Barcelona in the upcoming fixture. Despite returning from several injury setbacks and gradually regaining match fitness, the young talent has displayed glimpses of brilliance in the brief moments he has spent on the field in recent matches. In the current season, Pedri has contributed one goal and an assist in 13 appearances across various competitions. His potential impact becomes pivotal for Barcelona, particularly in breaking down Real Betis’ defensive strategies.

Match Facts

Real Betis have lost nine of their last 10 LaLiga games against Barcelona.
Barcelona have collected points on each of their last 12 visits to Real Betis in the LaLiga.
Real Betis have drawn 10 of their 20 games in LaLiga this season.

Injury and Team News

Real Betis will be facing absences in their squad as Hector Bellerin and Marc Bartra are sidelined due to injuries. Youssouf Sabaly, Chadi Riad, and Abdessamad Ezzalzouli are unavailable for selection as they are on international duty at the AFCON. Ayoze Perez and Aitor Ruibal are both dealing with injuries sustained in their last game against Granada and will undergo assessments to determine their availability.

As for Barcelona, Gavi is ruled out for the remainder of the season due to an ACL injury, while Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Raphinha will also miss the Betis clash. On the brighter side, Joao Cancelo, Pedri, Marcos Alonso, and Inigo Martinez are potential returnees to the squad.

Head to Head

Total Matches – 138

Real Betis – 30

Barcelona – 84

Draw – 24

Predicted Lineup

Real Betis Predicted lineup:

Silva; Ruibal, Pezzella, Papastathopoulos, Abner; Roca, Guadardo, Isco; Henrique, Jose, Diao

Barcelona predicted lineup:

Pena; Balde, Christensen, Araujo, Kounde; Gundogan, Pedri, Jong; Torres, Lewandowski, Yamal

Match Prediction for Real Betis vs Barcelona

Real Betis have won only two of their last 10 games, impacting their pursuit of Champions League spots in La Liga. Barcelona have faced inconsistency this season, struggling to maintain good performances and facing challenges in finishing chances and defending. Despite this, they have secured victories through resilience.

Prediction: Real Betis 1-2 Barcelona

Telecast

India – Sports 18, JioCinema

UK – Viaplay, ITV

US – ESPN+

Nigeria – DSTV, Gotv

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