Real Betis will kick off the new year with an away clash against Celta Vigo in La Liga on Wednesday. Celta, positioned just two points from the relegation zone, will strive for a vital win, while Betis, holding seventh place, aims to secure points on the road.
Match Preview
Under Rafael Benitez, Celta has struggled, recording two wins, seven draws, and nine losses in their 18 league games.
Although they secured a recent home win against Granada, their away fixture against Villarreal ended in a 2-3 defeat, snapping their four-game unbeaten streak in the league.
Despite recent inconsistencies, Celta aspires to secure consecutive home league victories, something they haven’t achieved since February/March 2023.
Encouragingly, they’ve had success against Betis, winning three of their last four encounters, including a 1-0 home win last season.
Real Betis, on the other hand, have encountered a challenging spell, registering only one win in their last seven competitive matches (D4, L2). Their sole victory came against Villanovense in the Copa del Rey.
Although Betis showcased resilience in the Europa League, their La Liga form has been marked by a 13-game unbeaten run since mid-September.
However, they’ve drawn their last four league games and struggled away from home, failing to win in their last eight away league fixtures.
Both teams will aim to reverse their recent fortunes, with Celta seeking home comfort and Betis aiming to break their winless away streak.
Team News
Celta will miss defenders Carl Starfelt and Mihailo Ristic due to injuries sustained in December, while winger Jonathan Bamba joins the Ivory Coast squad for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Iago Aspas is set to return after serving a suspension, and new signing Jailson might feature in the squad following his move from Palmeiras.
For Betis, Claudio Bravo, Hector Bellerin, Marc Bartra, Youssouf Sabaly, Guido Rodriguez, and Nabil Fekir are expected to miss the game.
Additionally, Chadi Riad and Abde Ezzalzouli join the Morocco squad for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Isco will return to Betis’ starting lineup after serving a one-match suspension.
Predicted Lineups
Celta Vigo: (4-4-2)
Guaita;
Vazquez, C. Dominguez, Nunez, Sanchez;
Mingueza, Dotor, Tapia, Cervi;
Douvikas, Larsen
Real Betis: (4-2-3-1)
Silva;
Ruibal, Pezzella, Sokratis, Miranda;
Altamira, Carvalho;
Diao, Isco, Perez;
Willian Jose
Prediction: Celta Vigo 1-1 Real Betis
Betis has recently been on a streak of draws in La Liga, and we predict this trend may continue against Celta Vigo, resulting in a 1-1 draw given both teams’ recent home performances.
