Real Betis vs Barcelona preview, prediction, team news, and head-to-head

Barcelona will arrive looking to tighten their grip at the top of the table by extending their lead over 2nd placed Real Madrid. On the other hand, Betis, currently sitting in the European spots, will be eager to extend their strong home form.

Real Betis head into this fixture full of confidence, having gone eight games unbeaten in all competitions. That run includes a dominant 4-1 win in the Copa del Rey and a solid string of league performances that have lifted them to fifth in the table with 24 points from 14 matches.

Under Manuel Pellegrini, Betis have made their home ground a real stronghold as they are yet to lose a single home league game this season. Still, facing a top team like Barcelona will be a real test of their European ambitions.

Barcelona are also in fine form, riding a five-game winning streak in La Liga. Their latest was a statement 3-1 victory over Atletico Madrid.

While they have adjusted comfortably in their newly renovated stadium for their home games, the Catalans will also want to replicate this form away from home.

An important aspect that Hansi Flick will need to work on is the defence, as Barcelona are often caught by sharp attackers. Working on the team’s defence will be a great step in ensuring their title defence goes smoothly.

Don't forget to check out our daily betting tips on BET OF THE DAY

Barcelona have had the better H2H records in the last 10 matches. The Blaugrana has won 6 of the last 10 matches they played against Real Betis. (D3, L1). The only loss in those 10 matches was in 2021 in a 1-0 defeat at home.

Historically, matches between these two teams often see both of them find the back of the net. Additionally, 8 out of their last 10 matches have produced over 2.5 goals, with Barcelona scoring a higher number of goals in these fixtures.

Real Betis are expected to be without a few key names heading into this clash. Goalkeeper Pau López remains sidelined with a tendon injury, while there are still question marks over fitness in both defence and midfield.

The coach will be delighted to have Antony back in the starting eleven after missing their last match due to suspension.

Barcelona, on the other hand, received a major lift with Pedri’s return in their last outing against Atletico Madrid. However, there are still concerns in midfield.

Frenkie de Jong was absent from the previous game due to illness, and his availability remains uncertain. Coach Hansi Flick is likely to go with a strong, attack minded setup to put Betis under early pressure.

Real Betis (4-2-3-1): Valles; Ruibal, Natan, Bartra, Gomez; Altimira, Roca; Antony, Fornals, Ezzalzouli; Hernandez

Barcelona (4-2-3-1): J Garcia; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martin, Balde; De Jong, E Garcia; Yamal, Pedri, Raphinha; Lewandowski

Real Betis have turned their home ground into a tough hunting ground for any visitor, but when Barcelona come to town, things get a little more unpredictable.

The Catalans have been ruthless on the road this season, and their attacking firepower gives them a slight edge heading into this one.

With both teams known for finding the net when they meet, bettors can stake on livescorebet that the match will produce over 2.5 goals.

Prediction: Real Betis 2-4 Barcelona

• Bet on Barcelona to win

• Over 2.5 goals

• Robert Lewandowski to score