VALÈNCIA. The Valencia CF is gearing up for a crucial match against Real Betis at La Cartuja, as noted by coach Carlos Corberán, who expressed a strong desire for his team to “rebel” in La Liga. Having secured two consecutive victories, including a solid win against Espanyol, Valencia has gained momentum as they strive to move away from the relegation zone. With the team currently sitting in 14th place, the upcoming match presents another opportunity to bolster their position.
Valencia’s last encounter with Real Betis at La Cartuja was a bittersweet memory, as they faced defeat in the Copa del Rey final on April 23, 2022. Despite ongoing challenges under the ownership of Meriton, Valencia managed to challenge the Betis significantly before losing in a penalty shootout. This backdrop adds extra motivation for the ‘che’ as they return to the same venue.
In recent weeks, Valencia has witnessed impactful performances from players such as Umar Sadiq, Stole Dimitrievski, and team captain José Luis Gayà, contributing to a rejuvenated squad. Other players like Eray Cömert and Largie Ramazani have also stepped up during this critical phase.
On the other hand, Real Betis approaches the match in good spirits, currently holding a respectable sixth place in La Liga. Coach Manuel Pellegrini faces several injury setbacks, including key players like Isco and Junior, which may affect his lineup. Despite these challenges, Betis recently excelled in the Europa League, showcasing their battling spirit.
Corberán emphasized the persistent pressure the team faces and the necessity for positive results. He praised Real Betis for their impressive style of play, highlighting their capability to switch between different modes of attack and possess skilled wingers.
Adding an interesting narrative to the match is Guido Rodríguez, who recently transferred to Valencia after a successful stint at Betis. The Argentine midfielder’s return may incite strong feelings among local fans. Similarly, Abde, another player with a history at Betis, has expressed his enthusiasm for the encounter amid the tensions from their previous meeting.
As anticipation builds for the match, both teams are eager to claim vital points in the race for their respective goals in the league. The kickoff is scheduled for 16:15 at La Cartuja, with both sides looking to make a significant impact in what promises to be a thrilling matchup.