Real Betis vs Barcelona, Prediction, Odds and Betting Tips 21/01/2024
Calendar icon Updated 13 Feb 13:18

Real Betis vs Barcelona, Prediction, Odds and Betting Tips 21/01/2024

Kai Edvard Iliev Kai Edvard Iliev

Odds via Tonybet

Real Betis vs BarcelonaJanuary 21 2024, 2:30 PM ET
Real Betis odds+320
FC Barcelona odds-121
Draw+295
Over\Under2.5 -140\+119

Real Betis vs Barcelona. Shape of the Teams

The Real Betis vs Barcelona encounter has consistently been a high-scoring affair due to the offensive nature of both teams. Real Betis, known for their attacking play, has been without a solid center-back pairing for ages, and it shows. 

Real Betis’ challenges are particularly pronounced when facing Barcelona. Their last triumph over the Catalan giants dates back to 2021. Since that victory, Barcelona has dominated the fixture, winning all encounters except for a single draw, which ended in a 2-2 stalemate. 

The recent weeks have not been particularly kind to Real Betis either, culminating in their elimination from the Copa Del Rey following a 0-1 loss to Deportivo Alavés. While this exit does reduce their fixture congestion compared to other teams still competing in the Cup, it’s a setback for the Sevillian club.

Kicking off 2024, Real Betis experienced further disappointment with a 2-1 defeat at a rain-soaked Balaidos against Celta Vigo. Although they managed to secure draws against Girona (1-1) and Real Madrid(1-1), and a goalless draw with Real Sociedad, these results, while commendable, didn’t translate into victories. 

This trend of scarce wins and even fewer clean sheets is concerning, especially as they prepare to face a Barcelona side known for its attacking prowess.

Barcelona recently emerged from a challenging match against Unionistas de Salamanca, a fan-owned club established just a decade ago. Despite facing early adversity, with Unionistas scoring first, Barcelona managed to secure their place in the next round with a 3-1 victory. 

However, the win was not without its concerns. The performance was somewhat shaky despite the presence of most key players. Robert Lewandowski, a notable exception, was replaced by the young talent Marc Guiu.

This match followed a particularly disheartening performance in the Clásico against Real Madrid during the Spanish Supercup in Riyadh. 

Barcelona suffered a significant 4-1 defeat, a result that highlighted several weaknesses in the team. From the onset, they appeared disorganized and unable to match the intensity of their arch-rivals, leading to a comprehensive loss.

Real Betis might be only seventh, but Barcelona should approach their upcoming match cautiously, especially considering the presence of key players like Assane Diao and Isco. 

The silver lining for Barcelona is that they are facing a team that has also shown vulnerabilities in defence. Even with the recent addition of Sokratis to bolster their back line, Betis has exhibited moments of disorientation in defensive play. 

Real Betis vs Barcelona Main Match Info

Real Betis vs Barcelona Prediction, Odds

With neither team on form, Barcelona is likely to take it home, as the odds show. Key to Barcelona’s advantage is the return of a well-rested Robert Lewandowski, who brings a significant attacking threat.

Additionally, the overall squad quality of Barcelona is likely to play a crucial role. In matches where tactical organization, especially in defence, is lacking, individual skill and quality often become the deciding factors.

Real Betis, despite having Sokratis as a solid defensive presence, still faces challenges in their backline. The frequent defensive errors of players like Germán Pezzella and William Carvalho remain a concern. 

Real Betis might be hoping for exceptional play from Isco or Diao, with Isco, in particular, being a standout performer this season. However, against Barcelona’s defenders like Araújo and Koundé, it is unlikely to be enough. 

Real Betis vs Barcelona Betting Tip

I’m not a big fan of João Félix in any way, but there have never been better conditions for the Portuguese to attempt to redeem himself following the last two disastrous months.

Félix has been unable to give the club much incentive to consider a longer-term arrangement beyond the summer when his loan spell ends.

However, with Barcelona facing its own set of challenges and looking for players to step up, I cannot think of a better moment for him to give Barcelona fans hope. 

The team has never been in a lower spirit, with many media reporting that Xavi already lost some parts of the dressing room after the troublesome 4-1 defeat in Riyadh in the Clásico against Real Madrid. 

Real Betis, while a competent side, does not possess the same level of threat as Real Madrid. Specifically, Betis defenders Aitor Ruibal and Juan Miranda are not expected to pose a significant threat going forward and are also seen as less solid defensively compared to Real Madrid’s Mendy and Carvajal.

This scenario could be particularly advantageous for João Félix. Against Betis’s weaker defensive flanks, Félix has an excellent opportunity to exploit 1v1 situations, potentially revitalizing his form and confidence.

Additionally, the presence of a well-rested Robert Lewandowski and the progressively adapting Vitor Roque could provide Félix with the support he needs to excel. 

Of course, it still hurts for Barca that Gavi is not with the team and his unavailability will likely impact the team until his return in the summer. However, the upcoming match against Real Betis offers an opportunity for other players to step up.

Ferrán Torres, in particular, has shown that he can excel against teams with defensive vulnerabilities like Betis. 

This encounter, therefore, is not just about securing a win; it’s also an opportunity for Barcelona’s attacking players to regain their confidence and rhythm, which is crucial for the team as they navigate the remainder of the season.

Disclaimer: Odds are accurate at the time of posting and subject to change. Please verify the latest odds on our platform before betting

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