La Liga 2020/21: Real Betis vs Real Madrid – tactical analysis

After a narrow win against Alavés in their opening match, Manuel Pellegrinis Real Betis played Real Madrid as their second La Liga fixture. On the other hand, Zinedine Zidanes side travelled to Benito Villamarín on Saturday looking to get their first domestic win of the season, after playing a goalless draw against Real Sociedad in their season opener.

Although the tie saw a red card an own goal and a match-deciding penalty, there were certain tactical patterns that helped Real Madrid overcome Betis in their home. In this tactical analysis, well look the line-ups, how Real Madrids dynamic backline shaped their build-up, and how Betis build-up tactics looked like compared to their rivals. This analysis will also look at how Betis press varied with Real Madrids dynamic approach at the back.

Line-ups

Real Betis went with their signature 4-2-3-1, with Nabil Fekir starting as a number ten behind Antonio Sanabria. Joaquín started from the right in an advanced midfield of three, whereas Guido Rodríguez and William Carvalho started as the double pivot ahead of the back four.

For Real Madrid, the 4-3-1-2 formation accommodated  Luka Jović and Karim Benzema playing in front of Martin Ødegaard. Toni Kroos, Fede Valverde and Casemiro formed the midfield three ahead of Madrids defensive line.

Madrids dynamic shape in build-up an

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