Kenley Ward
Dailysports's expert
On Friday, May 23, in the final round of La Liga, Betis will host Valencia. Kick-off is set for 21:00 Central European Time. Here’s my take on the match outcome.
Key match facts and head-to-head history
- Betis are winless in their last 3 La Liga matches.
- Valencia have lost just 1 of their last 7 away games.
- Betis have conceded at least one goal in 10 consecutive matches.
- In Matchday 14 this season, Valencia defeated Betis 4-2.
Match preview
Betis delivered a solid La Liga campaign, but a poor start prevented them from achieving their main goal—qualifying for the Champions League. Manuel Pellegrini’s side is already guaranteed to finish sixth, meaning they’ll play in the Europa League next season.
Due to a packed schedule, Betis have failed to win any of their last three matches. Last round, the Verdiblancos suffered a heavy 1-4 defeat against Atlético, following 2-2 and 1-1 draws with Rayo Vallecano and Osasuna, respectively.
But Betis’ biggest game of the season is still to come. On May 28, they’ll play the first European final in their history—against Chelsea in the Conference League.
As for Valencia, the “Bats” fought for survival for most of the season, but everything changed dramatically when Carlos Corberán took over as head coach. Valencia now sit 12th with 45 points and could even finish in the top 10.
Valencia have picked up no points in their last two matches—losing 0-1 to Athletic Bilbao and Alavés. However, before that, they went on an incredible 10-match unbeaten run, which ultimately saved them from relegation.
Probable lineups
- Betis: Adrián, Ortiz, Bartra, Mendy, Perro; Carvalho, Altimira; Abde, Lo Celso, Rodríguez; Cucho
- Valencia: Mamardashvili; Mosquera, Diakhaby, Tarrega, Gayà; Rioja, Barrenetxea, Guerra, Jaime; Almeida, Duro
Betis vs Valencia match prediction
Betis will likely conserve energy ahead of the Conference League final, while Valencia will aim to end their season on a positive note. I’m backing the visitors not to lose this one.
