Real Madrid is set to visit the Estadio Benito Villamarín on Saturday to face Real Betis in a crucial La Liga match. With a win, Real Madrid can move to the top of the standings, at least temporarily, as they are currently level on points with Barcelona.
Predicted Lineup for Real Madrid
Real Madrid is likely to lineup in a 4-3-3 formation against Betis:
- GK: Thibaut Courtois
- RB: Raul Asencio or Lucas Vázquez
- CB: Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba
- LB: Fran Garcia or Ferland Mendy
- CM: Eduardo Camavinga, Luka Modrić, and Aurélien Tchouaméni
- RW: Rodrygo
- ST: Kylian Mbappé
- LW: Vinicius Jr.
Return of Key Players
Kylian Mbappé is back in the lineup after missing the Copa del Rey match due to a dental procedure. His return is a significant boost for Real Madrid’s attack.
Real Betis Form
Real Betis enters the match on a high note, having secured back-to-back La Liga wins and advancing in the UEFA Conference League. They will look to capitalize on their momentum against a depleted Real Madrid midfield.
Injury Woes and Suspensions Shake Madrid’s Midfield
Real Madrid’s midfield depth is under severe strain ahead of the clash. Jude Bellingham completes his two-match suspension following his controversial red card against Osasuna, while Dani Ceballos joins the absentee list after sustaining a muscle injury in the Copa del Rey. The latest blow comes with Fede Valverde, who was ruled out of the squad entirely due to a minor hamstring strain. Ancelotti confirmed the Uruguayan is being rested as a precaution ahead of next week’s Champions League showdown against Atlético Madrid.
“We have to manage the squad carefully,” Ancelotti said in his pre-match press conference. “Valverde is a key player, but we cannot risk him. We trust the players who step in.”
Mbappé’s Return Bolsters Attack
The return of Kylian Mbappé provides a timely boost for Los Blancos. The French superstar missed Madrid’s midweek Copa del Rey clash after undergoing a wisdom tooth extraction but has been cleared to start against Betis. His partnership with Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo will be pivotal against a Betis side that has conceded just 12 goals at home this season.
Vinicius, who ended his six-game La Liga goal drought with a strike against Girona last weekend, will captain the side in the absence of Nacho Fernández. “Vini is in a good moment,” Ancelotti remarked. “His energy and leadership are vital for us.”
Betis’ Threat: Can Pellegrini Spring a Surprise?
Manuel Pellegrini’s Betis sit sixth in La Liga, unbeaten in their last four home games. Key midfielder Guido Rodríguez returns from suspension, while striker Willian José aims to exploit Madrid’s makeshift midfield. Ancelotti warned: “Betis press aggressively and transition quickly. We must dominate possession.”
Tactical Notes
- Midfield Battle: Without Valverde and Bellingham, Modrić and Tchouaméni must dictate tempo to neutralize Betis’ press.
- Asencio’s Test: The young right-back faces a trial by fire against Betis’ pacy winger Ayoze Pérez.
- Mbappé’s Movement: Expect the Frenchman to drift wide, creating space for Vinicius to cut inside.
Conclusion
Real Madrid’s title credentials face a stern examination in Seville. With key absences testing their depth and Betis’ formidable home record, Ancelotti’s tactical acumen and Mbappé’s clinical edge could prove decisive. A win would send a resounding message to their rivals Real Madrid are primed to reclaim top spot.
Stay tuned for live updates and post-match analysis on realmadridblood.com.
