As the year concludes, high-flying Girona faces Real Betis at the Benito Villamarín in a crucial La Liga clash. While Girona leads the league, Real Betis aims to secure vital points, currently sitting in seventh place.
Match Preview:
Real Betis, under Manuel Pellegrini, enters the fixture after a mixed run, winning just one of their last seven matches in all competitions.
Despite this, Betis maintains an unbeaten league streak of 12 matches. With aspirations to convert draws into victories, Betis faces a challenging task against the league leaders.
In their recent encounter with Real Sociedad, Betis played to a goalless draw, marking their fourth draw in the last five La Liga matches.
However, they draw confidence from being one of four teams yet to lose a home game this season and a strong historical record against Thursday’s opponents.
Girona, currently leading La Liga, continues its impressive season, responding to Real Madrid’s victory with a 3-0 triumph over Alaves.
With eight wins in their last nine league matches, Girona holds a two-point lead over Real Madrid and eyes a Christmas stay at the top.
Known for their prolific attack, Girona has scored 41 goals in just 17 league games, the highest in the top flight. However, breaking down Real Betis, with the third-best defensive record in the league, poses a significant challenge.
Team News:
Real Betis faces injury concerns, with Claudio Bravo, Youssouf Sabaly, Marc Bartra, and Guido Rodriguez sidelined. Nabil Fekir, although back in training, won’t be available. Isco serves a one-match suspension, potentially giving Rodri Sanchez a starting role.
Girona will miss Toni Villa, Joel Roca, Borja Garcia, Yangel Herrera, and Ricard Artero. Viktor Tsygankov remains doubtful. If Tsygankov doesn’t feature, Girona may stick with the lineup from their recent win.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Real Betis: (4-2-3-1)
Silva;
Ruibal, Pezzella, Riad, Abner;
Altimira, Roca;
Perez, Rodri, Ezzalzouli,
Willian Jose
Girona: (3-4-3)
Gazzaniga;
Garcia, Lopez, Blind;
Couto, Martin, Garcia, Gutierrez;
Portu, Savio, Dovbyk
Prediction: Real Betis 1-3 Girona
Real Betis boasts an unbeaten home record, but Girona, fearless and in top form, poses a real threat. With Girona’s attacking prowess, we predict they will secure a 3-1 victory, consolidating their position at the top of La Liga.
In this La Liga showdown, Real Betis looks to break Girona’s winning streak, while Girona aims to strengthen its grip on the league leadership.
