Sabasports Match Preview
LaLiga: Real Betis vs Girona
Kickoff Time: 2023-12-22 02:00 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/ALBERT GEA
Real Betis have been experiencing a decline in their league results
due to the impact of the European competition. They have been stuck in a draw
for three consecutive rounds and have struggled to secure victories against the
bottom team, Almeria. In their upcoming game, they will face challenges in
reorganizing their offensive line as Isco, the midfield engine who has
maintained full attendance in the league, has accumulated yellow cards and will
be suspended. Isco’s absence will require them to make adjustments in terms of
tactical aspects. Their strength lies in their midfield, where they excel in
interceptions, averaging 9.1 per game, which is the highest in the league. They
also rank third in the league with an average of 9.3 dribbles per game. After
successful interceptions, Isco plays a crucial role in distributing the ball to
the wings, relying on the speed of the wingers to create threats and break
through the opponent’s defense. Therefore, Isco’s suspension will have a
significant impact on their performance.
Girona have emerged as a dark horse in La Liga this season, boasting
an impressive league winning rate of 82.35%. They have only suffered a defeat
against traditional powerhouse Real Madrid this season. If Girona can maintain
this winning rate, they may even have a chance to win the La Liga title. Currently,
Girona have scored the most goals in La Liga, with a total of 41. Their style
of play revolves around team football, with goals being distributed among
multiple players. So far, 13 different players have scored goals in the league,
while 11 players have provided assists. Taking their starting 11 players in the
last league match against Alaves as an example, nine of them have scored goals
previously. This dispersed attack power makes it challenging for opponents to
defend against them. Girona even managed to score four goals against the strong
Barcelona side in an away game. From a tactical perspective, Girona are capable
of launching direct passes and long balls to counterattack opponents
effectively. Their players exhibit excellent cooperation in the opponent’s
penalty area. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to describe Girona as a lower-end
version of Barcelona.
With Real Betis having played double games per week since November
27th, it’s likely that the players’ physical fitness has been significantly
affected. As the winter break in La Liga is approaching after this round of
games, Betis players are expected to finally get some much-needed rest and
relaxation. Considering the recent poor performance of the home team and the
absence of Isco due to suspension, it provides an opportunity for Girona to
secure points away from home.
Real Betis’ Last 5 Games: DLDWD
23-12-17 Real Sociedad 0-0 Real Betis
23-12-15 Real Betis 2-3 Rangers
23-12-09 Real Betis 1-1 Real Madrid
23-12-07 Villanovense 1-2 Real Betis
23-12-03 Almeria 0-0 Real Betis
Girona’s Last 5 Games: WWWWD
23-12-19 Girona 3-0 Deportivo Alaves
23-12-11 Barcelona 2-4 Girona
23-12-08 Orihuela 2-5 Girona
23-12-02 Girona 2-1 Valencia
23-11-28 Girona 1-1 Athletic Club
Head To Head Record:
23-05-29 Girona 1-2 Real Betis
22-09-19 Real Betis 2-1 Girona
19-01-20 Real Betis 3-2 Girona
18-09-28 Girona 0-1 Real Betis
18-04-14 Girona 0-1 Real Betis
Prediction: Girona to win or
Draw