Preview and Prediction
Los Choconeros’ position in the standings might still be on the top four. Yet, it is not sealed as they only have three points margin with Sevilla, which is threatening them and can even level it if they win in tomorrow’s fixture. Thus, the match this weekend versus Real Betis is still crucial for Diego Simeone’s men. With only three games remaining, a defeat is forbidden.
Both teams previous matches
Atletico could only snatch one point in their visit to Vigo in the midweek. Alvaro Morata managed to take the lead at the first minute of the game. However, they failed to extend their lead and even conceded by Fran Beltran’s goal. Such is surely rather disappointing result for them.
Real Betis, on the other hand, secured their second win under the command of Alexis Trujillo. They smashed Osasuna 3-0 by the goals of Guido Rodriguez, Alfonso Pedraza and the Barcelona loanee, Carles Alena. The victory also saves them from the definite relegation threat.
Possible tactic
Diego Simeone always sticks to his 4-4-2 formation. However, he will not be able to play his best starting IX due to Joao Felix’s injury. He is ruled out of this game alongside Sime Vrsaljko and the defender Mario Hermoso. Alvaro Morata and Angel Correa or Diego Costa will be paired up as the frontmen. Marcos Llorente and Saul Niguez will be the key men in the midfield.
Alexis Trujillo will have less burden now and attempt to enjoy the game on the pitch. He is likely to deploy the identical formation as in the previous game. Nabil Fekir is pushed forward to accompany Borja Iglesias or Loren Moron upfront. In the midfield, Cristian Tello and Alfonso Pedraza or Alex Moreno will be on both flanks to hold the defense line and strike back on the counter.
Players to watch
In Atletico, the top scorer Alvaro Morata is expected to continue his good form. He has bagged 12 goals and provided one assist so far. Some other key men to watch are Saul Niguez with his six goals, Koke with three goals and five assists and last but not least the goalie Jan Oblak.
Meanwhile Betis under Trujillo relies on the Argentinian defensive midfielder Guido Rodriguez as the key man of the first layer of their wall, Nabil Fekir as the creative one on the attacking side and the left winger Alfonso Pedraza who scored in the previous game. Another notable one to watch is the former Barcelona man, Cristian Tello.
Atletico vs Betis Prediction
As the more expeienced side, Saul Niguez and Co will have no trouble in beating Betis. Alexis Trujillo’s men are in progress of finding their best form. This match should be quite even as the host will have bigger pressure to win. Nevertheless, Los Rojiblancos are likely to seal another win here.
Betting odds
The punters definitely put Atletico as the clear favourite no matter what. They are projected to win at 1.42. The draw result is at 4.40 and Nabil Fekir and Co are only backed to win at 8.15.
