Betis Hold the Advantage Ahead of Decisive Clash
Real Betis welcome Feyenoord to La Cartuja on Thursday for a crucial Europa League showdown that will determine whether the Spaniards secure an automatic last-16 place.
Los Verdiblancos sit eighth in the League Phase standings, holding their position only on goal difference after four wins, two draws and one defeat.
Their only loss came last week at PAOK, followed by another setback in La Liga against Alaves. Despite those away struggles, Betis return to a more comfortable setting at La Cartuja, where they have won six of their last eight competitive home matches.
Scoring goals has not been an issue either โ they have netted at least twice in seven of their last eight home fixtures.
Feyenoord Must Win to Keep Playoff Hopes Alive
Feyenoord enter the final matchday in 26th place, needing a victory to have any chance of breaking into the top 24 and reaching the knockout round playoffs.
Robin van Persieโs side revived their hopes with a commanding 3-0 win over Sturm Graz and followed it up with a 4-2 victory against Heracles in the Eredivisie.
However, their away form in Europe has been disastrous: three defeats from three away League Phase games (Braga, Stuttgart, FCSB), and at least two goals conceded in five of their last six matches on the road.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Betis remain heavily depleted, missing key players including Sofyan Amrabat, Cucho Hernรกndez, Lo Celso, Isco, Bellerรญn and Firpo.
Antony and Abde Ezzalzouli should be fit to feature, while Ruibal remains doubtful.
Feyenoord travel without Smal, Beelen, Diarra, Zand, Trauner and Jeng. Watanabe, Ahmedhodzic and Valente are doubtful after weekend injuries. Ayase Ueda is expected to lead the line, boasting 19 goals this season but only one in the Europa League phase.
