Real Betis will be looking to make it back-to-back wins in La Liga when they continue their 2021/22 season away to Espanyol on Friday night.
Team News
Espanyol
- Espanyol has no fresh injury concerns from their 2-2draw with Cadiz on Tuesday. AS such, the side will be boosted by Adria Pedrosa and Keidi Bare’s return from suspension.
- Fit-again David Lopez could feature in the middle of defense. However, head-coach Moreno is expected to resist the temptation to shuffle his pack following the relatively quick turnaround.
- Raul de Tomas will lead the line for the hosts’ again. Meanwhile, Adri Embarba and Javi Puado should feature in the final third with Loren Moron starting on the bench.
Real Betis
- Martin Montoya, Marc Bartra and Joaquin remain on the sidelines through injury. But Alex Moreno is available after serving a suspension against Alaves.
- Head coach Pellegrini is expected to make some changes from the side that started last time out. In that case, Moreno will be in line to return at left-back while William Carvalho could feature in central midfield.
- William Jose has also returned to offer another option in the final third. However, Iglesias scored twice against Alaves on Tuesday. He should therefore lead the line in a 4-2-3-1 formation again.
Prediction Analysis
Real Betis could achieve something special this season. And, it would not be a surprise to see the side secure a spot in the top four. On the other hand, Espanyol’s home form this season has been strong. In this regard, we are backing the hosts to pick up a point in an entertaining draw.
Our prediction is Espanyol 2-2 Real Betis.
Possible Lineup
Espanyol: Diego Lopez, Gil, Gomez, David Lopez, Pedrosa, Darder, Morlanes, Embarba, Melendo, Puado, De Tomas.
Real Betis: Bravo, Bellerin, Pezzella, Gonzalez, Moreno, Carvalho, Rodriguez, Canales, Fekir, Juanmi, Iglesias.