Nine points each, but only Madrid have a perfect start

A test of perfect starts and home resilience

Real Betis welcome Real Madrid to Estadio de La Cartuja, Sevilla, on Friday, September 4, with the visitors carrying a perfect three-game record into La Liga’s fourth round. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 UTC. Madrid sit second with nine points and a goal difference of plus eight, while Betis are seventh on six points with a goal difference of minus one.

The table gives Madrid the stronger platform, although Barcelona also have nine points at the top. A victory would keep Real Madrid level on points with the leaders, while Betis can close the gap on the leading pack by claiming a result. The hosts’ recent form is Win, Win, Loss, so a response to their latest defeat would be important against the league’s unbeaten team.

Matching shapes, different momentum

Both teams have used a 4-2-3-1 in all three of their matches, setting up a direct tactical comparison. The shared shape could make the midfield contest particularly important, with the double-pivot structure offering each side protection while the attacking midfield line looks to create opportunities. Madrid’s three wins and plus-eight goal difference suggest they have converted that structure more effectively so far.

Betis can draw confidence from their home numbers. They have won their only home game, scoring once, conceding none and keeping one clean sheet. Madrid’s away record is also perfect after one match, with two goals scored and one conceded, but they have not kept a clean sheet on the road. That contrast gives Betis a reason to remain disciplined and make their home advantage count, while Madrid’s away scoring rate points to a threat that cannot be ignored.

Where the goal threat lies

Kylian Mbappé has been Madrid’s leading scorer, with four goals in three appearances. J. Bellingham has added two goals and two assists, while Vinícius Júnior has supplied one goal and two assists. Their combined production gives Madrid several routes to hurt Betis within the 4-2-3-1.

Rodrigo Riquelme is Betis’ standout scorer, with two goals in three appearances. His output will be central to the hosts’ hopes of turning their home control into another positive result, particularly against a Madrid side that has conceded once away.

Absences add another layer

Betis will be without D. Conde, G. Lo Celso and A. Ruibal, all listed with injuries. Madrid are missing R. Asencio, Eder Militao, F. Mendy, T. Pitarch and Rodrygo, while Endrick and A. Tchouameni are questionable with muscle injuries. The unavailable defensive players and Rodrygo could affect Madrid’s options, while the uncertain status of Endrick and A. Tchouameni leaves further selection questions before kick-off.

Prediction

Predicted score: Real Betis 1-2 Real Madrid. Madrid’s perfect form and greater attacking output should edge a close match, although Betis’ clean home record points to a competitive contest.