The Benito Villamarín is set to ignite as Real Betis welcomes Vitória Guimarães in a pivotal UEFA Conference League last-16 first leg. The air crackles with anticipation, fueled by Betis is recent triumph over Real Madrid, a victory that showcased Isco’s masterful orchestration. Guimarães, however, arrive with an unblemished group stage record, a testament to their resilience and tactical acumen. This clash promises a compelling blend of Spanish flair and Portuguese fortitude, a battle for European supremacy under the floodlights of Seville.
Betis are looking to reach the quarter-finals of a European competition for the first time since the 1997-98 season. Their home form in the Conference League has been positive, with just one defeat in their last five matches (G3, E1), keeping two clean sheets in two of them. Moreover, the record favours the Green and Whites, who beat Vitória Guimarães in the 2013-14 Europa League (1-0 in both matches).
However, the Portuguese side is in great form, unbeaten in the Conference League with five wins and one away draw. With a clash of styles and teams on a roll, this match promises to be an exciting clash in the battle for the quarter-finals.
TEAM NEWS
- Real Betis
Manuel Pellegrini faces a complex situation for the crucial Conference League clash, marked by significant absentees. Long-term injuries to Lo Celso, Marc Roca and William Carvalho leave a void in midfield, forcing Pellegrini to look for tactical alternatives. The late recovery of Bellerín and Ángel Ortiz limits defensive options, potentially requiring the use of less experienced players. In addition, the non-registration of Cucho Hernández in the competition reduces offensive options. Adding to this list of absentees is the recent news of the transfer of Victor Roque. The young striker, who had arrived with high expectations, has been transferred, forcing Pellegrini to readjust his attacking strategy. This cascade of departures requires a profound reorganisation, testing the squad’s depth and the available players’ ability to step up.
- Vitória Guimarães
Luís Freire’s Guimarães also grapples with injury concerns. Gustavo Silva, their primary attacking threat in the Conference League, is a significant doubt, potentially weakening their offensive line. Bruno Gaspar is another question mark, leaving the defensive setup uncertain. However, the team boasts a strong core, ready to step up and challenge Betis on their home turf.
Likely Lineups
Real Betis
Vieites; Sabaly, Bartra, Natan, Perraud; Cardoso, Altimira; Isco, Abde, Antony; Bakambu.
Vitória Guimarães
Varela; Maga, Borevkovic, Villanueva, Mendes; Silva, Handel; Santos, Mendes, Embalo; Oliveira.
KEY PLAYERS
Isco (Real Betis)
Isco, the talented playmaker from Malaga, has established himself as Real Betis’ star player this season. His ability to unbalance opposing defences and generate play has been essential in ‘Los Verdiblancos’ performance. With three goals and an assist in his last two games, Isco has been in spectacular form. His creative style of play and exceptional vision allow him to assist his teammates and be a constant threat in attack.
On the pitch, Isco contributes offensively and plays a key leadership role in the team. His experience at international and significant club levels gives him a great deal of responsibility, and he has been a determining factor in Betis is resurgence this season. In this European cross, he will guide his team to victory, being the key player for Betis to reach the next rounds. His ability to connect with the rest of the players and lead the attack will be fundamental to the aspirations in the European competition.
Nuno Santos (Vitória Guimarães)
Vitória Guimarães’ Portuguese midfielder Nuno Santos has been one of the standout performers in the current edition of the Conference League. His vision and ability to assist teammates have been key to his team’s performance in the group stage. Throughout the competition, he has proven to be a creative player, capable of breaking down the flanks and creating dangerous moves in the final third of the pitch.
His ability to read the game and distribute the ball precisely is one characteristic that makes him dangerous. In addition, his ability to connect with his team’s attackers and generate space through his assists can represent a serious challenge for the Betis defence. In this European clash, Nuno Santos will be one of Vitória Guimarães’ primary offensive weapons and will undoubtedly have the mission of making life difficult for Betis. His ability to unbalance and provide creativity on the pitch could be the key for the Portuguese team to achieve a good result in this match.