SPORTS DESK | LALIGA MATCHDAY 23
Atlético Madrid welcomes Real Betis to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano this Sunday, 08 February 2026, in a high-stakes LaLiga clash that follows just three days after a lopsided cup encounter between the two sides. Diego Simeone’s men enter the fixture with immense momentum, currently sitting third in the table with 45 points from 22 matches.
The narrative of this match is dominated by the events of Thursday, 05 February 2026, when Atlético Madrid dismantled Real Betis 5-0 in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals. That match featured a dream debut for new signing Ademola Lookman, who scored in the rout, alongside contributions from fellow newcomers Obed Vargas and Rodri. The victory not only secured Atlético’s place in the cup semifinals but also extended their dominant head-to-head record against the Seville-based club.
Head-to-Head and Statistical Outlook
Historically, Los Colchoneros have held a significant advantage over Los Verdiblancos. Across their last 49 meetings, Atlético Madrid has secured 30 victories compared to just 8 for Real Betis. Recent trends are even more stark:
- Atlético has won eight of the last ten head-to-head encounters.
- Real Betis has lost each of their last seven top-flight away matches against Atlético.
- In their last three meetings across all competitions, Atlético has led at both half-time and full-time.
Team News & Tactical Preview
Diego Simeone’s squad depth has been bolstered by the January transfer window. The midfield rotation now includes Johnny Cardoso, Obed Vargas, and the veteran Koke, providing the “intensity” Simeone famously demands. Real Betis, currently fifth in the standings, will be desperate to erase the memory of Thursday’s 5-0 thrashing. Despite the recent loss, Manuel Pellegrini’s side has shown resilience in the league, though they remain heavy underdogs with bookmakers listing Atlético as a strong moneyline favourite.
Projected Lineups:
Atlético Madrid: Oblak; Molina, Giménez, Le Normand, Galán; De Paul, Koke, Gallagher; Griezmann, Lookman, Alvarez.
Real Betis: Silva; Bellerín, Llorente, Natan, Perraud; Fornals, Roca, Cardoso; Ezzalzouli, Avila, Lo Celso.
Match Details
| Fixture | Date | Time (ET) | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlético Madrid vs. Real Betis | 08 February 2026 | 12:30 p.m. | Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Madrid |
Lead Editor’s Prediction: Given the psychological edge from the 5-0 victory earlier this week and Betis’ poor away record in Madrid, a 2-1 or 2-0 victory for the hosts is the most likely outcome. Atlético’s defensive solidity at home remains the deciding factor.