Match Preview: Atletico Madrid vs. Real Betis

Source: Sports Mole

Upcoming Clash: Atletico Madrid vs. Real Betis in La Liga

This Sunday, May 18, 2025, Atletico Madrid will host Real Betis at the Estadio Civitas Metropolitano as both teams seek to improve their standings in La Liga. Kick-off is scheduled for 6 PM UK time.

Recent Form and Challenges

With their last league outing ending in disappointment, Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid suffered a 2-0 defeat to Osasuna. This loss left them in third place on the La Liga table, sitting with 70 points from 36 matches. Their title hopes have dwindled, trailing champions Barcelona by 15 points and five points behind Real Madrid.

On the other hand, Real Betis arrives at this match following a 2-2 draw with Rayo Vallecano. This result hindered their ambitions for Champions League qualification, which now seems increasingly difficult. With 59 points, Betis retains a spot in the Europa League but aims to secure a top-five finish.

Atletico Madrid’s Strong Home Record

Atletico Madrid boasts the third-best home record in La Liga this season, having earned 43 points from 18 matches. However, they will need to bounce back after recent setbacks. Notably, they achieved a 2-1 victory against Real Betis at home last season, though they fell 1-0 in their previous encounter earlier this term.

Real Betis’ Quest for European Competition

Despite recent draws, Real Betis has seen positive performances, remaining unbeaten in their last eight matches across all competitions. With a record of 16 wins, 11 draws, and nine defeats from 36 league matches, they aim to stay competitive for European football, especially with a significant match against Chelsea in the Europa Conference League final approaching.

Team News: Who Will Play?

As for team news, Atletico Madrid is expected to have a full squad available, with several players such as Antoine Griezmann, Samuel Lino, Nahuel Molina, and Conor Gallagher potentially returning to the starting XI. Meanwhile, Clement Lenglet may also feature in defense.

In contrast, Real Betis will be without Ezequiel Avila and Diego Llorente due to hamstring injuries. Additionally, Juanmi, Hector Bellerin, and Marc Roca are all doubts, along with Youssouf Sabaly, who suffered an injury against Rayo Vallecano. Antony and Isco, both crucial for Betis’ recent form, are expected to start.

Possible Lineups

Atletico Madrid’s Expected Lineup:

• Oblak; Molina, Gimenez, Lenglet, Lino; Simeone, De Paul, Koke, Gallagher; Griezmann, Alvarez

Real Betis’ Expected Lineup:

• Adrian; Ruibal, Bartra, Natan, Rodriguez; Cardoso, Fornals; Antony, Isco, Ezzalzouli; Hernandez

Predictions for the Match

Anticipation is building for this encounter, with predictions suggesting a tightly contested match. Our take leans towards a 1-1 draw, as both teams will likely fight hard for points.

Summary of Statistics

• Atletico Madrid sits 3rd in La Liga with 70 points.
• Real Betis occupies 6th place, with 59 points.
• Both teams have strong goalscorers and inventive playmakers.

The upcoming match promises excitement, strategies, and perhaps a few surprises. As these two competitive teams clash, fans will surely be cheering for their clubs to emerge victorious.

Tags:

Atletico Madrid, Real Betis, La Liga, Football Preview, Diego Simeone, Manuel Pellegrini, Sports News, European Football, Copa del Rey, Champions League