Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the La Liga match.
After two seasons in the Segunda, Elche return to the top flight without significant improvements to their squad. Lacking recent experience against top-tier opposition, they once again look like relegation candidates. Real Betis, meanwhile, narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification last season, surrendering fifth place to Villarreal.
Elche
Elche’s lengthy pre-season included eight friendlies, which should at least help them find rhythm. However, defensive issues were exposed in August with defeats to Al-Ahli (0:2) and Al-Ain (3:4), while wins against lower-league Almería and Hércules (both 1:0) came with less weight. Summer arrivals Federico Redondo, Álvaro Rodríguez and Martim Neto still need time to settle, especially after the departures of Nicolás Mercau and Nicolás Castro.
Real Betis
Real Betis failed to secure Antony Matheus on a permanent basis this summer, though the Brazilian could yet join before the window shuts. The team reached the Europa League final last season, losing 4:1 to Chelsea, and managed eight goals across five friendlies. For the league opener they will be without Isco, new signing Nelson Deossa and Giovani Lo Celso, but their quality and experience should still prove decisive.
Elche vs Real Betis Prediction
In 2022/23 Real Betis beat Elche twice (3:0 and 3:2), and they are well equipped to find a way through again at the Manuel Martínez Valero.
