Real Betis vs Real Madrid : Predicted lineups for LaLiga matchday 26 clash

As the excitement builds for the upcoming LaLiga clash between Real Betis and Real Madrid, football enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating a thrilling encounter at the Benito Villamarín stadium. With both teams in fine form and key players returning from suspension, this matchday 26 fixture promises to be a captivating spectacle for fans and neutrals alike.

In Short

Key players return for crucial clash

Real Madrid’s pursuit of the LaLiga title continues as they prepare to face a resurgent Real Betis side. The visitors will be buoyed by the return of their talismanic striker, Kylian Mbappé, who has recovered from a recent dental procedure. The French international has been in scintillating form, contributing goals and assists in his last three league appearances, including a memorable hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League.

On the other hand, Real Betis will be relieved to have Brazilian winger Antony available for selection after Betis exploits loophole in minutes allowing Antony to play against Real Madrid. The former Manchester United player has made an immediate impact since joining on loan, notching three goals and two assists in just six appearances. His presence on the pitch has been instrumental in Betis’ recent upturn in form, which has seen them secure back-to-back league victories against Real Sociedad and Getafe.

The return of these key players adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already highly anticipated fixture. Both managers will be keen to capitalize on their star performers’ availability as they look to secure a crucial three points in their respective campaigns.

Tactical considerations and team news

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti faces some selection dilemmas ahead of the match, particularly in midfield. The absence of Dani Ceballos due to a hamstring injury and Jude Bellingham’s suspension leaves a void in the center of the park. Brahim Díaz is expected to fill Bellingham’s role, while the experienced Luka Modric appears to be the frontrunner to partner Aurélien Tchouaméni in midfield.

In defense, Thibaut Courtois is set to return between the sticks after missing the Copa del Rey fixture against Real Sociedad. The back four is likely to consist of Lucas Vázquez and Ferland Mendy as fullbacks, with Antonio Rüdiger and Raúl Asencio forming the central defensive partnership. Ancelotti will be hoping for a solid defensive display, especially given the recent incident involving Asencio, who was substituted at halftime in the cup match due to the emotional impact of abusive chants directed at him.

For Real Betis, manager Manuel Pellegrini is expected to maintain a similar lineup to the one that secured victory against Getafe. The midfield trio of Johnny Cardoso, Sergi Altimira, and Isco Alarcón has been crucial in Betis’ recent success, providing a perfect balance of creativity and defensive stability. The attacking trident of Antony, Jesús Rodríguez, and Cucho Hernández will be tasked with breaking down Madrid’s resolute defense.

Historical context and recent form

The recent history between these two sides at the Benito Villamarín stadium adds an extra layer of intrigue to this encounter. The last two meetings at this venue have ended in draws (1-1 and 0-0), suggesting that Real Madrid may face a stern test in their quest for three points. This historical context will undoubtedly be on the minds of both sets of players as they prepare for the match.

Real Betis enter this fixture in a rich vein of form, having secured consecutive league victories and progressing to the round of 16 in the UEFA Europa Conference League. The team’s resurgence has coincided with the return to form of Isco Alarcón, whose influence in midfield has been pivotal in orchestrating Betis’ attacking play. The emergence of young talent Jesús Rodríguez has also provided an additional spark to the team’s offensive capabilities.

Real Madrid, while still very much in the title race, will be wary of the potential distraction posed by their upcoming Champions League derby against Atlético Madrid. Ancelotti’s men will need to maintain their focus on the task at hand and avoid any complacency against a Betis side that has proven capable of competing with the league’s top teams.

Implications for the LaLiga title race

As the 2024-2025 LaLiga season enters its final third, every point becomes increasingly crucial in the title race. Real Madrid’s position as contenders means that they cannot afford any slip-ups, especially against teams in the upper echelons of the table. A victory at the Benito Villamarín would not only maintain their momentum but also send a strong message to their rivals about their championship credentials.

For Real Betis, a win against the capital club would solidify their position in the European qualification spots and potentially reignite their ambitions for a top-four finish. The psychological boost of defeating a title contender could propel Pellegrini’s side to new heights as they enter the business end of the season.

The outcome of this match could have far-reaching consequences for both teams’ seasons. A Real Madrid victory would keep them firmly in the title picture, while a Betis win could throw the race wide open and inject new life into their own European aspirations. With so much at stake, fans can expect a fiercely contested and tactically intriguing battle between two of Spain’s most storied clubs.

As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a captivating encounter between Real Betis and Real Madrid. With both teams boasting talented squads and motivated by their respective goals, this LaLiga matchday 26 clash has all the ingredients to be a memorable spectacle that could shape the narrative of the season’s conclusion.