Prediction: Atletico Madrid vs Real Betis

Prediction: Atletico win

Best Odds: 1/2

Bookmaker: 888sport

Following another fascinating international break, we’re back with a whole host of action across Europe as the elite leagues get back underway. That includes La Liga, as Spanish football’s top tier begins the slow but steady push towards the end of the campaign. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what is a vital clash in the battle for a top four place with Atletico Madrid going toe to toe with Real Betis.

Atletico Madrid

It was a slow start to the season for Atletico Madrid in more ways than one but eventually, as tends to be the case, they were able to turn things around. They aren’t exactly locked into the title race picture but they have some breathing room in the top four battle, which is exactly what they need. If they can potentially pip Real to 2nd, it’ll give them some great motivation heading into the summer.

Team News

Reinildo and Depay are both injured for this one with Reguilon being a fitness concern.

Real Betis

The last few years have seen Real Betis rise up and become one of the most intriguing clubs in Europe. In addition to bringing through some bright young talent, they’ve been able to blend it together with veteran stars – leading them down the path of silverware and an even brighter future. They look steady on and off the ball, they have some great cohesion within the squad, and there’s clear confidence there.

Team News

Canales is suspended here with Cruz, Felipe and Fekir all being out through injury.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in October, Atletico beat Betis 2-1.
• Atletico have won five and drawn one of their last six games.
• Betis have won two, drawn two and lost two of their last six games.
• Atletico have scored 13 goals and conceded two in their last six games.
• Betis have scored six goals and conceded eight in their last six games.

Conclusion

This is going to be a tight, tense and pretty technical affair from where we’re sitting. Betis haven’t exactly been breaking down the door in terms of their goalscoring prowess, and we imagine they’ll opt for a more defensive approach in a clash of this magnitude. They’ll try and hit the hosts on the counter but given the strength that Atletico have at their disposal, and the form they’re in, it’s hard to see anything other than a victory for the home side.

Prediction: Atletico win

Best Odds: 1/2

Bookmaker: 888sport