Real Madrid Seeks Perfect Start vs. Revitalized Betis

Real Madrid aims to maintain their unbeaten record in the 2026-27 La Liga season as they head to La Cartuja on Friday to play against Real Betis.

Jose Mourinho’s team has secured full points from their initial three league encounters, placing them second in the standings, tied on nine points with Barcelona. The Madrid squad has demonstrated an impressive offensive display, netting 10 goals in their first three matches.

The season commenced for Madrid with a tight 2-1 win at Espanyol, followed by convincing home performances against Real Sociedad and newcomers Malaga. Their recent match saw Jude Bellingham start the scoring before Kylian Mbappe contributed another goal, and Arda Guler capped off the 4-0 win.

Conversely, Betis has earned six points from their first three games, currently holding the seventh slot in the table. Under Manuel Pellegrini’s guidance, they began the season with two consecutive 1-0 victories over Real Sociedad and Valencia, though their momentum was interrupted with a hefty 5-2 loss to Levante.

Despite this defeat, Betis can enter Friday’s match with optimism. They have not lost any of their previous four home games against Real Madrid, including a 1-1 tie last April where Hector Bellerin scored an equalizer in stoppage time.

On the other hand, Real Madrid will be eager to break this streak and secure their first away win against Betis since August 2021. With Barcelona not playing until Sunday, a win would also position Mourinho’s team three points ahead at the top of the table.

Real Madrid 4-0 Malaga- Photo crediit: Real media

Team News

Betis will be missing Diego Conde, Aitor Ruibal, and Giovani Lo Celso due to injuries. Dani Ceballos has returned to the club from Real Madrid but may not be available for his second appearance owing to fitness concerns. Diego Llorente, Pablo Fornals, and Cucho Hernandez could also be in contention for starting positions following the loss against Levante.

On the Madrid side, Raul Asencio, Ferland Mendy, Thiago Pitarch, and Rodrygo remain sidelined. Eder Militao is making progress with his hamstring issue but is unlikely to feature before the international break. Aurelien Tchouameni and Endrick are also doubtful, while Mourinho might bring back Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate, Bernardo Silva, and Arda Guler after some were rested against Malaga.