Mallorca vs Real Betis
La Liga
Saturday
27th January
Iberostar Estadi
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the La Liga fixture between Mallorca and Real Betis.
Mallorca vs Real Betis: Preview
Mallorca form analysis
Mallorca’s results have been mixed of late, struggling for consistency. They began with a disappointing 0-0 draw at home to Almeria in mid-December, failing to break down the opposition. However, they bounced back by narrowly defeating Osasuna 3-2 a week later, taking the lead twice before conceding late on. A tough 1-0 loss to league leaders Real Madrid followed in early January, with a late goal settling the game.
Mallorca then earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Celta Vigo in mid-January, equalizing just before half time after falling behind early. Most recently they earned a valuable point on the road against Villarreal, grabbing a last-gasp equalizer to claim a 1-1 draw after going behind. While their attack has shown promise at times, Mallorca have been vulnerable defensively, making games harder than needed. If they aspire to remain clear of the relegation battle this season, they will need to be more solid at the back while also killing off games when possible to gain vital wins and points.
Real Betis form analysis
Real Betis have shown some inconsistency in recent matches. They began with a disappointing goalless draw at home to Real Sociedad in mid-December, failing to make their pressure count. A week later they came from behind to snatch a 1-1 draw with Girona, equalizing very late on. Betis then lost 2-1 to Celta Vigo in early January despite taking the lead, conceding twice in the final three minutes.
They responded with a narrow 1-0 victory over Granada in mid-January, settling the game with an Isco goal late on. However, in their most recent outing they suffered a chastening 4-2 defeat at the hands of Barcelona despite twice leveling the score through Isco goals. While their attack has shone at moments, Betis have struggled defensively in close matches against quality sides. If they aim to break into the top six this season, they must tighten up at the back while learning to kill off weaker opponents.