Real Betis, enjoying one of its best moments of the season with two consecutive LaLiga EA Sports victories and the return of Brazilian winger Antony, who had his red card rescinded after the Getafe match, will host Real Madrid this Saturday at Estadio Benito Villamarín. 

Key Absences for Madrid Ahead of Atleti Clash

Real Madrid heads into this match with crucial absences, particularly in midfield. Dani Ceballos is expected to be sidelined for nearly two months due to a left leg muscle injury. Additionally, Jude Bellingham will serve the second and final match of his league suspension following his red card against Osasuna.

Unlike Antony, whose suspension was overturned, Real Madrid’s appeal for Bellingham was unsuccessful. As a result, Brahim Díaz will take his place in the starting lineup, while Eduardo Camavinga and Luka Modric will compete for Ceballos’ spot in midfield. The Croatian has the upper hand to start alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni, given that he did not play in the Copa del Rey match against Real Sociedad.

Mbappé Returns to Lead Madrid’s Attack

Another key return for Ancelotti is Kylian Mbappé, who has fully recovered from a dental procedure. The French star is in top form, having contributed goals or assists in his last three league matches, in addition to scoring a hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League. He will lead the attack alongside Vinícius Junior and Rodrygo Goes.

In defense, Thibaut Courtois is set to return to the starting XI after recovering from right leg discomfort. The backline will be composed of Lucas Vázquez, Antonio Rüdiger, Raúl Asencio, and Ferland Mendy.

Betis Aims to Extend Winning Streak

Real Betis arrives in excellent form, securing back-to-back league wins with a 3-0 victory over Real Sociedad and a 2-1 triumph against Getafe, while also advancing to the UEFA Conference League Round of 16 by eliminating Gent.

The team’s resurgence has been fueled by Isco Alarcón, who has become the central figure in Betis’ playmaking. Alongside him, academy sensation Jesús Rodríguez and Brazilian winger Antony Dos Santos have made significant contributions. Since arriving on loan from Manchester United, Antony has been a crucial asset with three goals and two assists in six matches.

Betis will look to capitalize on its momentum to challenge Real Madrid, but maintaining balance between the lines and a strong defensive performance from Diego Llorente and Marc Bartra will be essential.

Probable Lineups

Real Betis: Adrián; Aitor Ruibal, Marc Bartra, Diego Llorente, Perraud; Sergi Altimira, Johnny Cardoso; Antony, Isco, Jesús Rodríguez; Cucho Hernández.

Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois; Lucas Vázquez, Antonio Rüdiger, Raúl Asencio, Ferland Mendy; Aurélien Tchouaméni, Luka Modric, Brahim Díaz; Rodrygo Goes, Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Junior.

Kickoff is set for 6:30 PM CET (-1 GMT) at Estadio Benito Villamarín.