Barcelona will host Real Betis at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Saturday evening in what should be a thrilling La Liga clash. That eighth win in a row across all competitions is within Barcelona’s sights—and Real Betis are looking to extend their own six-match winning streak in the league. That would put them firmly in contention for a top-four finish.
Barcelona’s Form and Objectives
Barcelona are top of La Liga with 66 points from 29 matches. That’s three points clear of second-placed Real Madrid. As the season enters its final stretch, Hansi Flick’s team can’t afford to drop any points if they want that league title. The Blaugrana are riding high after a 1-0 Copa del Rey semi-final win over Atletico Madrid—which booked their spot in the final. That confidence should serve them well against a strong Betis side.
Robert Lewandowski remains the driving force behind Barcelona’s attack. He’s scored nine goals in his last nine league matches. He’ll lead the line alongside Raphinha and Lamine Yamal, with Frenkie de Jong and Pedri controlling the tempo in midfield.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Kounde, Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Balde; de Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha; Lewandowski.
Real Betis’ Resurgence
Real Betis have climbed to sixth place with 47 points from 29 matches. Their six consecutive wins in La Liga have put them just six points behind fourth-placed Athletic Club—and firmly in contention for European qualification. That 2-1 win over Sevilla showed just how effective they can be on both attack and defence.
Betis will be without Isco due to suspension, but Giovani Lo Celso is expected to step into that playmaker role. Antony has been in excellent form since joining on loan from Manchester United—and will be key on the right flank. Cucho Hernandez will lead the line as Betis look to exploit those occasional defensive lapses that have been Barcelona’s Achilles’ heel.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Adrian; Sabaly, Bartra, Llorente, Rodriguez; Cardoso, Fornals; Antony, Lo Celso, Jesus Rodriguez; Hernandez.
Key Stats
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Barcelona have won seven consecutive matches across all competitions.
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Real Betis have won their last six La Liga games.
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The reverse fixture ended in a 2-2 draw earlier this season in Seville.
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Barcelona defeated Real Betis 5-1 in the Copa del Rey round of 16 in January.
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Barcelona last lost to Real Betis at home in December 2021.
Player to Watch: Robert Lewandowski
Lewandowski continues to be Barcelona’s talisman this season. He’s got 38 goals and three assists across all competitions. At 36, he remains one of the world’s deadliest strikers. With nine goals in his last nine league outings, Lewandowski will be looking to extend that scoring streak against a Betis defence that has shown some vulnerability against top-tier opposition.
Barcelona vs Real Betis Prediction
Real Betis have been impressive recently, but Barcelona’s home advantage and attacking depth give them the edge in this one. Expect a closely contested match with both teams creating chances. But Barcelona’s quality should see them secure another vital win.
Barcelona 2-1 Real Betis
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