Barcelona is set to host Real Betis this Saturday following a successful week. They secured a victory against Girona in La Liga and advanced to the Copa del Rey final after defeating Atletico de Madrid. In the final, they will play against Real Madrid on April 26th in Sevilla. Barcelona currently leads La Liga with a three-point advantage over Real Madrid, while Atletico Madrid is further behind in the title race.
Coach Flick is expected to rotate the squad with the upcoming Champions League quarterfinal first leg against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday. Real Betis is currently sixth in La Liga, aiming for a Champions League spot, being six points behind fourth place. Both teams have won their last six La Liga matches.
Barcelona will miss several players due to injuries, including Dani Olmo, Marc Casado, Andreas Christensen, Marc Bernal, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen. However, Lamine Yamal is likely to start.
Match Details
- Date: Saturday, April 5
- Location: Estadio Lluis Companys — Barcelona, Spain
- Live stream: ESPN+
- Odds: FC Barcelona -280; Draw +425; Real Betis +650
Previous Encounter
The last match between Barcelona and Real Betis was on January 15th in the Copa del Rey, where Barcelona won 5-1. Their La Liga match in Sevilla ended in a 2-2 draw, with Real Betis scoring a late equalizer.
Barcelona`s Manager Speaks
Hansi Flick mentioned in a press conference that the game against Real Betis will be challenging, praising Real Betis coach Pellegrini`s experience and ability to improve players. Flick expressed confidence in his team`s belief and determination to compete for all titles.
Projected Lineups
FC Barcelona: Wojciech Szczesny; Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Alejandro Balde; Pedri, Frankie De Jong; Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha; Robert Lewandowski.
Real Betis: Adrian; Youssouf Sabaly, Marc Bartra, Diego Llorente, Ricardo Rodriguez; Johnny Cardoso, Pablo Fornals; Antony, Giovani Lo Celso, Jesus Rodriguez; Cucho Hernandez.
Player Spotlight
Antony, Real Betis: On loan from Manchester United, Antony has found form at Real Betis under Manuel Pellegrini, scoring two goals and providing two assists in eight La Liga games. This match is a significant opportunity for him to showcase his abilities.
Story to Follow
Szczesny`s Future at Barcelona: Barcelona is considering extending goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny`s contract beyond the current season. Signed after Ter Stegen`s injury, Szczesny`s performance has led to discussions about a new deal.
Match Prediction
Despite Real Betis`s good form, Barcelona is expected to win, although it might not be an easy game. Prediction: FC Barcelona 2, Real Betis 1.
