Real Betis are reeling after a tough blow landed on Sunday evening, just days before their clash with Barcelona. The LaLiga side will be without star midfielder Isco for the upcoming match at Montjuïc, following a suspension that’s left fans and manager Manuel Pellegrini gutted. Fresh off a gritty win in El Gran Derbi, this news dims the glow of their triumph over Sevilla.
A Costly Derby Victory
Betis kicked off their weekend with a bang, taking down Sevilla 2-1 in the latest edition of El Gran Derbi. Johnny Cardoso and Cucho Hernández found the net, securing three precious points under Pellegrini’s watch. But the joy was short-lived. Early in the second half, Isco picked up a yellow card—his fifth of the season—from referee Mateo Busquets. That booking triggers an automatic one-game ban, sidelining him for next weekend’s showdown with table-topping Barcelona.
Isco’s Absence: A Big Loss
Isco’s been a linchpin for Real Betis this season, pulling strings in midfield with nine goals and six assists in LaLiga alone. Against Sevilla, he set up Hernández’s winner, proving once again why he’s the heartbeat of this team. Facing a Barcelona side that just thumped Girona 4-1, his creativity and experience—honed over years at Real Madrid—would’ve been gold. Now, Pellegrini’s got to rethink his game plan without his midfield maestro for this key fixture.
Can Betis Rise to the Challenge?
Barcelona are flying high, leading LaLiga with their sights set on another title. For Betis, sitting sixth and chasing European spots, this was already a tall order. Losing Isco makes it even tougher, but there’s hope yet. Players like Antony and Jesús Rodríguez stepped up against Sevilla, and Pellegrini’s squad has shown grit all season. Still, taking points off Hansi Flick’s crew without their talisman will demand something special from the Verdiblancos.
A Tight Turnaround Looms
The timing couldn’t be worse. After facing Barcelona on April 5, Betis have a packed schedule ahead, juggling LaLiga and European dreams. Isco’s suspension is a one-off, so he’ll be back soon—but for now, all eyes are on how Pellegr Real Betis can adapt. Will they pull off an upset in Catalonia, or will Barcelona capitalize on this suspension setback? The countdown to Saturday’s clash is on.