Real Betis have not lost in the Europa League, but now face Utrecht, who have yet to win in European competition, although their recent matches suggest they are improving.
Real Betis
Real Betis have been solid this season: in the La Liga they are fifth, and in the Europa League they are unbeaten in four matches and sit ninth in the standings. They have been especially strong in defence in those four games, keeping three clean sheets. The only slip came against Nottingham Forest (2:2), when they conceded twice in five minutes. In the other matches, the hosts won by two goals (2:0 against Olympique Lyonnais and Ludogorets Razgrad) and played out a goalless draw with Genk (0:0).
Utrecht
Utrecht have climbed out of a slump: in the Eredivisie they are fifth, but in the Europa League they have just one point from four matches, with a 1:1 draw against Porto offering some encouragement. However, their attack is struggling – only one goal so far, and in their last six matches they have not scored more than twice in any game. Moreover, in the Europa League the visitors have conceded in every match, and across their last 13 games they have kept only one clean sheet.
Real Betis vs Utrecht Prediction
At home, Real Betis should outplay Utrecht and do so in a pragmatic manner. The visitors struggle to create goalscoring opportunities, and it will be difficult for them to score against such a solid opponent.
