Real Betis – Barcelona

Both Betis and Barcelona have problems in attack

Betis take on Barcelona at home on Saturday, May 7. "The Cucumbers are having one of the best seasons in their history. They have already won the Copa del Rey. They have a chance of qualifying for the Champions League. The Cup success has had an impact on the team's fortunes in La Liga. Betis were forced to rotate their squad in several games in preparation for the decisive battle with Valencia. They also failed to win the encounter with Getafe after the Cup final. At the moment, Betis have a very unpleasant series - three matches in La Liga without a single goal. The defence at the same time does not fail - only two conceded goals. Betis lost to Elche and shared the points with Getafe. Barcelona can feel at ease in terms of the standings. The margin from Betis is nine points. A place in the Champions League is assured. That said, the team are still reeling from their Europa League exit. Prior to the unfortunate game with Eintracht, the Catalans were serious contenders for two trophies. Now the season is virtually over, the players have both motivation and match-fixing problems. Even outsider Mallorca held out at the Camp Nou and avoided defeat. The Catalans had to defend a minimal advantage. In the last five meetings, Barcelona have just two victories. One of them over Real Sociedad was won by a single shot on goal. Xavi's side have been seriously hampered by an injury to Pedri. The young midfielder has been a liaison for the coach. Frankie de Jong is facing heavy criticism against him. Transfer rumours are also not giving his game any confidence. Barcelona have significant losses at the moment. In addition to Pedri, Pique, Nico, Sergi Roberto and Dest will definitely not be out. Betis have a full squad, all players ready for the important match. Bookmakers are expecting a bright exchange of goals from the upcoming meeting. It's not an obvious choice. A draw could satisfy Barcelona in a difficult away game. The team has obvious problems not only with their play, but also with their motivation. It is difficult to imagine the transformation of the attack against a dangerous opponent. In recent La Liga games, Barcelona have made significant moves towards the under-goings. In the distance of five games, the total over three has been broken only once. Betis have not scored in three consecutive meetings. Such data certainly doesn't indicate outstanding football. In the first leg, Betis unexpectedly beat Barcelona 1-0 away. Manuel Pellegrini surprised Xavi by "drying out" the opposition. A repeat of the same scenario is now possible. Plus Betis have a tendency to draw nil in recent matches.