Real Betis vs Dinamo Zagreb
UEFA Europa Conference League
Knockout Play-offs
Thursday
15th February 2024
Benito Villamarin
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the UEFA Europa Conference League fixture between Real Betis and Dinamo Zagreb.
Real Betis vs Dinamo Zagreb: Preview
Real Betis form analysis
They began with a hard-fought 2-1 home win over Sparta Prague, recovering from an early deficit. Away in Cyprus, Real Betis grabbed a narrow 1-0 win over Aris Limassol. They followed this up with a dominant 4-1 victory over Aris at home, taking a 3-0 first half lead through their attacking trio. However, Real Betis then suffered a disappointing 1-0 loss in Prague as their defense was exposed on the road.
In their final group match, Real Betis impressed in a thrilling 3-2 home defeat to Rangers. They twice came from behind through Perez, only to concede late. While Real Betis showed flashes of offensive quality led by Iglesias and Ayoze, defensive issues were occasionally exposed against clinical opponents. Still, their never-say-die attitude was evident in the Rangers match. Securing third place despite a couple losses highlighted Real Betis’ ability to compete at this level. With more consistency on both sides of the ball, they could advance further in future Europa League campaigns.
Dinamo Zagreb form analysis
They began with a disappointing 2-0 loss to Ballkani in Albania, struggling defensively away from home. In October, Dinamo Zagreb then fell 1-0 to Viktoria Plzen in the Czech Republic thanks to a penalty. They were unable to find an equalizer.
However, Dinamo Zagreb responded well in November, defeating Astana 2-0 in Kazakhstan through an improved defensive display. They followed this up with a crucial 1-0 victory over Viktoria Plzen in Croatia through another penalty.
In their final group match, Dinamo Zagreb impressed in a 3-0 home win over Ballkani, taking the lead through Perić before Petković’s brace sealed the three points.
While some concerning defensive performances saw them drop points early, Dinamo Zagreb’s ability to grind out results through solid defending and taking chances in front of goal saw them finish second. Their never-say-die attitude was rewarded with knockout qualification.
Real Betis vs Dinamo Zagreb: Prediction
More than 3.5 goals were scored on average in the last five Europa League matches at this venue. That figure is just over three in the visitors’ last five Europa League games. I expect a lot of goals from this game.
The visitors are in poor away form, losing two of their three away games in Europe this season. Their opponents on the other hand, are in a better position to take the lead, with three wins in their last five UEL matches.
