Real Madrid faces a must-win scenario against Real Betis in a crucial La Liga matchup at the Bernabeu on Sunday night. With Barcelona extending their lead to seven points at the top of the table after defeating Real Valladolid, the pressure is on Carlo Ancelotti and his squad to close the gap before the international break.
During a prematch press conference earlier, Ancelotti downplayed the significance of the points deficit, calling it a "detail." However, he acknowledged that Real Madrid hasn't performed at their best, which is why they find themselves in this position. "The season is long, but we’re four points behind because we haven't played well," Ancelotti admitted.
Despite the mounting criticism, Ancelotti remains unfazed, noting that it's part of the job. "Criticism here is normal. It’s something we’ll deal with until May. Whatever happens, happens," he reflected.
With just one win from their three La Liga matches so far and two 1-1 draws, Ancelotti explained that he and his coaching staff have identified the issues and expect a better performance against Betis. "It's not too complicated; we need to defend better," he said, adding that while the statistics don't show many goals conceded, the team has struggled to regain possession and prevent opponents from exploiting spaces between the lines.
For this critical encounter, Ancelotti will make two changes to the side that drew with Las Palmas on Thursday. Dani Carvajal returns to the starting lineup at right back, joining Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger, and Ferland Mendy in defense. In midfield, Aurelien Tchouameni will support Fede Valverde, who will be partnered with Arda Guler, coming in for veteran Luka Modric.
The attacking trio remains unchanged, with Rodrygo, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius Jr. leading the line. However, the three forwards have only managed one goal between them in open play during the 2024/2025 La Liga season so far, a statistic they'll be eager to improve on.
Real Madrid Starting XI vs. Real Betis:
Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Mendy; Tchouameni, Guler, Valverde; Rodrygo, Mbappe, Vinicius
