Manuel Pellegrini addressed the matter, stating that in his opinion, the value of the victory is equivalent to six points, but that does not mean that it will have a definitive impact in May during the final count. The evidence lies in the fact that since 2020, when the Chilean coach took the reins of the Andalusian team, Athletic have only finished higher in the standings once, last season, while Betis have suffered defeats in ten of their last eleven visits to San Mamés.
In the most recent match, Athletic’s victory came after overcoming a two-goal deficit, which triggered an immediate positive impact, becoming the starting signal for a promotion that would not stop until the calendar concluded. Athletic finished in fifth place, leaving Betis eleven points behind in seventh position. This year, in their particular duel, both teams are competing in Europe. However, for Betis, this circumstance has been punishing, as they have played two more games, including one this week, a Cup match where they easily defeated Gévora with a score of 1-6. This match did not significantly alter Pellegrini’s plans, allowing key players to rest.
Two factors must be considered before today’s clash. On the one hand, Athletic’s difficulties against Slavia Prague, Mallorca and Girona have been evident. They seem to be facing problems governing the game and lack inspiration in attack. It’s as if they suddenly felt the weight of their agenda, and their previously dizzying, vertical, fluid style has faded or deteriorated. The other aspect to highlight is the gradual improvement of a Betis team that achieved a prestigious victory over Atlético de Madrid last weekend.
Pellegrini claimed that the first half against Simeone’s men was the best display he has witnessed during his time in the Andalusian capital. It was a unique performance of aggressiveness, applying relentless pressure in the opponent’s territory. Villamarín was electrifying, and the players ended up exhausted, but that is the direction the new approach is taking. With Fekir transferred and Isco, William and Lo Celso sidelined by injuries—key players who often dictate the tempo—the team has adopted a more combative profile.
This Betis team comes out to bite from the front, with Chimy Ávila and Vitor Roque, two genuine nuisances ready to leave their mark. Cardoso and Altimira support them from a few meters back, providing balance and solidity in the midfield. It is worth highlighting Abde’s ability to break defenses, Fornals’ intelligence and the continuous incursions of the full-backs that contribute to his game. Central defenders can be the least reliable part of the team, with good ball distribution but lacking determination.
In short, there is ample reason to expect difficulties. Initially, it wouldn’t be surprising to see an awkward match, likely filled with changes in control and action in both penalty areas. A significant test for Ernesto Valverde’s team, which seems cautious after reviewing images of its opponents. Although he has not declared it openly, he is aware that Athletic needs to respond and get back on track, very similar to how they were a few weeks ago.
He is willing to make several adjustments to the starting eleven, at least a couple in the defensive line: De Marcos could come in for Gorosabel, and Vivian could replace Yeray, or even Paredes. In midfield, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Prados partnering Galarreta, leaving Jauregizar on the bench. In attack, doubts persist about the continuity of a subdued Guruzeta, although the forward has resurfaced on similar occasions before. Berenguer is waiting on the bench and could also take the place of Iñaki Williams, who currently carries more load than anyone else, as indicated in Son Moix.
