Real Betis vs Manchester United Preview 16/03/2023

Real Betis vs Manchester United – 16/03/2023

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Manchester United carry a commanding 4-1 lead into the second leg of their Europa League last-16 clash with Real Betis in Spain on Thursday.

The Red Devils dominated the first leg from start to finish, racking up 25 shots – 13 on target – while enjoying the lion’s share of possession.

Goals from Marcus Rashford, Antony, Bruno Fernandes and Wout Weghorst sealed an emphatic home victory for Man Utd, who will be hopeful of completing the job in Spain.

It is worth noting, however, that last week’s loss is Real Betis’ only defeat in their previous six encounters across all competitions.

After taking 10 points from a possible 12 in La Liga, Betis suffered a humiliating loss at Old Trafford before recording a 1-1 draw with Villarreal last time out.

As a result, Manuel Pellegrini’s side find themselves fifth in the Spanish top flight – three points outside the Champions League places.

Although Real Betis have avoided defeat in seven of their past eight Europa League home games, they will struggle overturn the 4-1 deficit this time around.

On the flip side, Manchester United were held to a goalless draw by Southampton on Sunday, with Casemiro picking up a red card in the first half.

Of course, the Red Devils will view Sunday’s defeat as a missed opportunity, but they have still lost just one of their last 14 games in all competitions – securing 10 wins along the way.

When you look at the bigger picture, Erik ten Hag’s men have only lost two of their previous 25 matches, establishing themselves as one of the most feared sides in Europe.

Having avoided defeat in each of their past eight Europa League clashes, Man Utd will be confident of booking their place in the quarter-finals.

Head-to-head: Last week’s meeting was the first competitive clash between Manchester United and Real Betis, with the Red Devils running out comfortable winners.

Team news: Real Betis midfielder Nabil Fekir is out for the rest of the season with an ACL injury, while Luiz Felipe and Juan Cruz are expected to miss Thursday’s clash.

Donny van de Beek, Christian Eriksen, Anthony Martial and Alejandro Garnacho find themselves on Man Utd’s injury list, while Victor Lindelof and Marcel Sabitzer are doubts for the second leg.

Despite the best efforts of the hosts, Manchester United are expected to book their place in the last eight on Thursday.

Forebet predicts that Real Betis and Man Utd will play out a high-scoring draw, sending the Red Devils into the quarter-finals.