Liverpool vs Real Betis Prediction: Given Liverpool’s depleted squad and Betis’ recent form, this match could be closer than expected, with a 1-1 draw being the likely outcome in this pre-season friendly encounter.
Liverpool and Real Betis are gearing up for an intriguing pre-season clash at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on July 26. This match marks Liverpool’s first fixture of their U.S. tour, while Betis look to build on their 5-1 victory over Austria Salzburg.
Match Preview
This friendly encounter offers both sides an opportunity to fine-tune their tactics and assess player fitness. Liverpool, under new management, will be eager to implement Slot’s playing style and integrate new signings. Real Betis, coming off a strong showing against Salzburg, will look to maintain their momentum and challenge the Premier League giants.
Lineups and Formations
Liverpool Lineup Prediction: Robertson, Phillips, Jones, Szoboszlai, Endo, Salah, Carvalho, Doak, Bradley, Van den Berg, Kelleher
Real Betis Lineup Prediction: Juanmi, Carvalho, Perraud, Silva, Arnal, Fernandez, Altimira, Fekir, Llorente, Sabaly, Fornals
Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces selection challenges with several key players absent. The Reds are likely to deploy a 4-3-3 formation, with Caoimhin Kelleher expected to start in goal. Real Betis, under Manuel Pellegrini, are expected to stick with their preferred 4-2-3-1 formation.
Injury Concerns and Unavailable Players
Liverpool are facing significant absences for this friendly encounter. The Reds will be without several key players due to extended breaks following international duty and injuries:
- Alisson Becker
- Trent Alexander-Arnold
- Virgil van Dijk
- Darwin Núñez
- Luis Diaz
- Cody Gakpo
- Diogo Jota
- Ibrahima Konate
- Joe Gomez
- Alexis Mac Allister
- Ryan Gravenberch
Additionally, young stars Jayden Danns and Bobby Clark have been omitted due to injuries.
Real Betis have fewer concerns, with their main absence being Isco, who is sidelined due to a fibula fracture. Other players unavailable for Betis include:
- Ayoze Perez (extended break after Euro 2024)
- German Pezzella (extended break after Copa America)
- Johnny Cardoso (extended break after Copa America)
- Abde Ezzalzouli and Juan Miranda (away on Olympics duty)
These absences will significantly impact both teams’ lineups and strategies for the match, potentially providing opportunities for younger and fringe players to impress their respective managers.
Where to Watch
U.S. viewers can catch the action on ESPN+, ESPN Deportes, and fuboTV. The match kicks off at 11:30 PM ET.
For other countries:
- Great Britain and Ireland: LFCTV
- Spain: Betis TV
- Norway: VG+
- Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei: beIN Sports Connect
Who Will Win?
Given Liverpool’s depleted squad and Betis’ recent form, this match could be closer than many expect. However, Liverpool’s depth and quality should see them through. The predicted score is a 1-1 draw, reflecting the pre-season nature of the match and the teams’ current states.
Recent Form
Liverpool ended their 2022-23 campaign strongly, securing a Europa League spot. Their last competitive fixture was a 4-4 draw against Southampton. Real Betis finished seventh in La Liga last season and started their pre-season with an emphatic win over Salzburg.
Head-to-Head
These teams have met only twice before, both in the 2005-06 Champions League group stage. Liverpool won 2-1 away before a goalless draw at Anfield.
Latest News
Liverpool’s focus has been on adapting to Slot’s methods and integrating new faces like Szoboszlai. The club continues to be linked with defensive reinforcements. Real Betis, meanwhile, have been relatively quiet in the transfer market, with their main news revolving around contract extensions for key players.
This friendly promises to be an engaging affair, offering insights into both teams’ preparations for the upcoming season. While the result may not be crucial, the performance and fitness levels of players will be closely scrutinized by both managers as they gear up for their respective league campaigns.
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