Real Betis and Real Sociedad clash in La Liga. Betis, with home advantage, is favored against Sociedad, who have had a slow start. Key players and formations are highlighted, predicting a 2-1 victory for Real Betis.
Real Betis and Real Sociedad are set to face off in a La Liga encounter this week, promising an intriguing battle between Manuel Pellegrini's squad and Sergio Francisco's team. The match will take place at Estadio La Cartuja de Sevilla on Friday, with kickoff scheduled for 8 pm UK time.
Real Betis, known for their ambition and dedicated fanbase, have a history of competing in major European tournaments, including the UEFA Champions League. Last season, they reached the final of the Conference League, ultimately losing to Chelsea. Their La Liga performance in the 2023-24 season saw them finish seventh, and they improved upon that the following season, securing sixth place and a spot in the UEFA Europa League this campaign. Currently, Betis occupies the 10th position in the La Liga standings with six points from five matches, trailing fourth-placed Athletic Bilbao by three points.
In their recent form, Real Betis enters the match against Real Sociedad following a 2-2 draw against Levante in the league. Prior to that, they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Athletic Bilbao at home, preceded by a 1-1 draw against Celta de Vigo. Manager Manuel Pellegrini is expected to field a 4-2-3-1 formation against Real Sociedad. Alvaro Valles is likely to start in goal, with a defensive line consisting of Hector Bellerin, Natan, Valentin Gomez, and Junior Firpo. The midfield holding roles will be filled by Pablo Fornals and Sergi Altimira, while Antony, Nelson Deossa, and Rodrigo Riquelme will form the attacking midfield trio, supporting Cucho Hernandez as the main striker.
Real Sociedad, a prominent club in Spain with a history in the UEFA Champions League, had a less successful season last year, finishing 11th in La Liga. While expectations aren't set for them to challenge for Champions League or Europa League spots, the team aims to compete in the top half of the table. However, their new season start has been underwhelming, placing them 17th with two points from four matches, just above the relegation zone.
Real Sociedad approaches the game against Real Betis after a 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid at home. This followed a 1-0 loss to Real Oviedo away from home and a 2-2 draw with Espanyol in their stadium. Manager Sergio Francisco is anticipated to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation against Real Betis. Alex Remiro will likely be in goal, with Aritz Elustondo, Igor Zubeldia, Duje Caleta-Car, and Sergio Gomez forming the defensive line. The two holding midfielders will be Jon Gorrotxategi and Pablo Marín. Goncalo Guedes, Mikel Goti, and Ander Barrenetxea will play in the attacking midfield positions, supporting Mikel Oyarzabal as the lead striker.
Key factors to consider include Real Betis's scoring record of 6 goals in 5 La Liga matches, along with conceding 6 goals. In their recent match against Levante, they maintained 67.4% possession. Real Sociedad has scored 4 goals and conceded 6 in their 4 La Liga games.
Considering Real Sociedad's poor start to the season and Real Betis's home advantage, Real Betis is favored to secure all three points in this La Liga match.
Prediction: Real Betis to win 2-1
Best Odds: 7/1