Match Preview: Real Betis vs Barcelona

Team News

Real Betis

• Real Betis' injury crisis continues with no less than eight players out and the problem has only been compounded by the suspension of Javi Chica.

Barcelona

• Jordi Alba remains the only key player missing after Adriano returned to action against Milan in the Champions League.
• Pedro is expected to start ahead of Alexis Sanchez who will be given a rest.

Match Facts

Barcelona have scored at least 2 goals in 30 of their last 34 away matches in La Liga.
Barcelona have won 16 of their last 17 matches in La Liga.
Real Betis have seen over 2.5 goals in their last 10 matches against Barcelona in all competitions.
Barcelona have kept a clean sheet in 6 of their last 7 away matches in La Liga.
Barcelona have been winning at both half time and full time in 6 of their last 7 away matches in La Liga.
Barcelona have scored at least 2 goals in 9 of their last 10 matches against Real Betis in all competitions.
Real Betis have failed to win their last 5 matches in La Liga.
* Best odds for selected bets are shown

Prediction

• There is no denying that Pepe Mel's side are in dire straits. A 3-2 defeat away to Malaga condemned the Seville outfit to the relegation zone meaning that even in relatively early stage of the season they are desperate for points.
• Betis will be buoyed however by their form in the Europa League, where their two wins and two draws see them leading their group. Still, if they still harbour any hopes of returning to European football next season then points are a must. Considering the opponent is Barcelona, they would surely settle for one.
• Tata Martino will have been delighted to see Lionel Messi get back to scoring ways midweek against Milan. The Argentine had gone three games without one which was causing a great deal of fuss. With the Argentine back on song, alongside Neymar and possibly Pedro instead of Alexis, as ever Betis will have their hands full trying to keep them at bay.

Prediction:

Real Betis

0

3

Barcelona