Real Betis vs Getafe - La Liga

The La Liga returns to the home ground on September 17, 2026, where Real Betis and Getafe will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. It has not been a daunting fixture list but there are signs that Mourinho has found a way to get the best from an increasingly stacked Madrid squad.

The standings add context to the occasion — Real Betis occupying 5th, Getafe perched in 15th — and the gap between them shapes the narrative. The hosts have hit a rich vein of form, WLDWL over their last five outings translating into a 80% win rate this campaign. It has been a wretched run on the road for the visitors, LLWWW in their last five and a win rate of 20% that explains their lowly standing. Where Real Betis have leaned on defensive discipline, Getafe have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape the contest. In his latest column, Paul Merson predicts the 2026/27 Premier League season at both ends of the table.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Real Betis favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Getafe are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. That radar allows City to retain control, momentum and possession in games, pinning opponents back in the tempered style Guardiola favoured.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer Raphinha, with 6 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. In his latest Sky Sports column, Paul Merson says he would be worried by Roberto De Zerbi's post-match comments criticising Spurs' forward players and medical staff.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Given the balance of the numbers, Real Betis should have enough to edge it — a 2-1 victory looks the most likely outcome. Whatever the outcome, the La Liga fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. It is understood that his next move is most likely to take him abroad - and potentially to the Premier League.