Match Pack: Real Betis vs Athletic Club (LaLiga MD28)

Athletic Club remain firmly involved in the battle for European places. Victory against Levante UD last Monday -together with the slip-ups by their closest rivals- has put Athletic just four points off sixth place with 11 games left to play.

On Sunday afternoon at 16:15 CET, Athletic face fellow European hopefuls Real Betis at the Estadio Benito Villamarín. The Andalusian outfit are currently fifth with 46 points.

It is a duel which could play a huge role in determining the final LaLiga Santander 2021/22 standings. From now until the end of the season, every match is a must-win if Los Rojiblancos want to qualify for Europe.

Match Info
Real Betis Balompié (Matchday 28)

Estadio Benito Villamarín (Seville)

LaLiga Santander 2021/22

Sunday March 13, 16:15 CET

How to Watch

All the relevant LaLiga TV operators and kick-off times to help you watch the match.

Team News

Marcelino has named a 21-man squad for the fixture. Defenders Iñigo Martínez and Ander Capa are out with respective hamstring issues, while centre-midfielder Dani García is unavailable due to a groin injury.

Marcelino’s Comments

The gaffer urged the Lions to remain focused and work harder than ever as they move into the final stretch of the 2021/22 campaign.

A written summary of Marcelino’s press-match press conference.

The Opponents

Founded in 1907, Real Betis have spent a total of 56 seasons in the top-flight. They play at the 60,721-capacity Estadio Benito Villamarín. Since 2020, they have been coached by Chilean manager Manuel Pellegrini, who recently extended his contract with the club until 2025. Betis’ trophy cabinet includes one LaLiga title (1934/35) and two Copas del Rey (1976/77 and 2004/05).

Currently fifth in LaLiga Santander, they have also reached this season’s Copa final and are still going strong in the Europa League. However, the Sevillanos come into this fixture in the midst of their worst run of results so far this campaign.

LaLiga position: 3rd

Form over last five LaLiga matches: LWWLL

Last LaLiga match: 1-3 loss to Atlético Madrid (H)

Previous Meetings
The two sides first met in LaLiga back in 1932/33, Athletic Club and Real Betis have played a total of 111 matches, with the Lions achieving 46 wins, 34 draws and 31 defeats.

In terms of matches played at the Benito Villamarín, Athletic have won 13, drawn 18 and lost 24.

In terms of their last five clashes at the Benito Villamarin, Betis have the upper hand. Athletic’s last win at the Seville-based ground came in the 2017-18 season and they also have two draws and two defeats to their name.