| Real Madrid vs Real Betis | |
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MATCH INFO |
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MATCH :
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Real Madrid vs Real Betis
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COMPETITION :
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La Liga
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| DATE: |
04-01-2026
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TIME:
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08.45 PM IST
07.15 PM UAE
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STADIUM
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Estadio Bernabeu |
Real Madrid will begin their first fixture of 2026 with several key absences to contend with. Dani Carvajal (knee), Trent Alexander-Arnold (thigh), Éder Militão (hamstring), Brahim Díaz (AFCON duty) and Kylian Mbappé (knee) will all miss the clash at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Mbappé sustained his knee injury during a training session earlier this week. Initial reports suggested the French forward could be sidelined for the remainder of January, but there is now growing optimism that he may recover in time to feature in the Spanish Super Cup later this month.
In attack, Gonzalo García is expected to lead the line despite yet to score this season. The young Spaniard is likely to be trusted to spearhead the frontline in the absence of Madrid’s star forwards, with Carlo Ancelotti short of attacking options.
Real Betis also arrive in the capital with notable selection concerns. Former Madrid playmaker Isco is ruled out with a muscle injury, while Cedric Bakambu, Abde Ezzalzouli and Sofyan Amrabat are all unavailable due to Africa Cup of Nations commitments.
Defensive pair Junior Firpo and Diego Llorente remain doubts after picking up muscle problems, and late decisions will be made regarding their availability for Sunday’s encounter.
Despite the absences, there are not expected to be any major surprises in Manuel Pellegrini’s starting XI. Antony is set to operate on the right flank, while in-form striker Cucho Hernández will lead the attack. The Colombian has been one of Betis’ standout performers this season, scoring seven goals in La Liga so far.