Real Betis – Atlético Madrid: All Square After A Tight Affair (0-0)

Real Betis and Atlético Madrid played a slow and tight game, with many inaccuracies and lack of game rhythm from both sides. This ended in a goalless draw and the state of the game was reflected by a grand total of one shot on target and 1.42 xG throughout 111 minutes of play. 
Tactical analysis and match report by Huu Trung.

Arguably the pick of the fixtures in 2023-24 La Liga campaign’s second gameweek would take place in Benito Villamarín, where Real Betis would welcome the contemporary league leaders Atlético Madrid.

Real Betis got off to a flying start with a stunning 2-1 victory away at Villarreal, whilst Atlético beated Granada 3-1 to put their first three points on the table and keep their impressive run of form in 2023 going. As we speak, Real Betis hadn’t actually come out on top over Atlético at home since 2019, and they would surely be very motivated to put an end to that drought. However, Manuel Pellegrini’s men would have to do that without the presence of Claudio Bravo, Nabil Fekir and William Carvalho. 

They lined up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation, with Rui Silva between the posts and a four-man back line of Youssouf Sabaly, Germán Pezzella, Luiz Felipe and Abner guarding in front of him. Guido Rodríguez would be coupled by the new signing Marc Roca at the base of the midfield, with a trio of Ayoze Pérez, Isco and Ruibal up front. Borja Iglesias would be the one leading the line for the hosts.

On the other end, Vitolo, Ángel Correa, Koke, Reinildo and José María Gim . . .