La Liga: Barcelona vs Real Betis Live
Preview
Barcelona is gearing up to host Real Betis at Estadi Olimpic Luis Companys today at 19:00 GMT. Barcelona, the reigning champions, has had a mixed start to the season, with 10 points from their first four matches, placing them third on the table. On the other hand, Real Betis currently occupies the seventh spot with seven points from their initial four games.
Barcelona’s La Liga campaign kicked off with a goalless draw against Getafe, but they quickly rebounded with three consecutive victories over Cadiz, Villarreal, and Osasuna. Their last match against Osasuna appeared to be heading for a draw until Robert Lewandowski netted the winner in the 86th minute. The Catalan giants are now preparing for three consecutive home games, including a Champions League group-stage opener against Royal Antwerp.
In a late transfer deadline swoop, Barcelona signed Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix on loan from Manchester City and Atletico Madrid, respectively. Both players made their debuts against Osasuna and are expected to contribute significantly to Barcelona’s campaign.
Barcelona will be without key players Pedri and Ronald Araujo due to injuries. Fermin Lopez is suspended for this match. Joao Cancelo, Joao Felix, and 16-year-old Lamine Yamal are expected to feature prominently.
Real Betis is entering this contest fresh off a 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano, with Willian Jose scoring the decisive goal. They have collected seven points from their first four matches, starting with a 2-1 win over Villarreal, followed by a draw with Atletico Madrid and a loss to Athletic Bilbao.
Real Betis has several players sidelined due to injuries, including Aitor Ruibal, Luiz Henrique, Claudio Bravo, William Carvalho, and Nabil Fekir. Additionally, they sold Luiz Felipe before the transfer deadline, which necessitates a change in their defensive lineup.
Head-to-head
Barcelona has dominated their recent encounters with Real Betis, winning their last three league games against them. However, Real Betis secured a memorable 1-0 victory at Camp Nou in December 2021.
Prediction
We expect the home side to grab a narrow win from this encounter. Both teams are expected to score. Do not write Betis off; a win for them will not be surprising.
Barcelona vs Real Betis Live Stream: Link 1, Link 2
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