Real Madrid face Betis as Modric reaches five yellow cards
The Croatian playmaker’s status is changing by the week as a notable discipline milestone looms ahead of a clash that has already captured attention. Real Madrid travel to Benito Villamarín this Sunday, aiming to prove their mettle against Betis, a side that frequently poses a stern test. Carlo Ancelotti’s squad arrives with two sidelined players, David Alaba and Ferland Mendy, while Luka Modric is set to miss the upcoming match due to accumulated cautions.
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Why Modric’s availability matters in Betis vs. Real Madrid
The Real Madrid talisman has already collected five yellow cards this season, meaning a suspension would come if another booking arrives in an upcoming match. This creates a delicate balancing act for coach Ancelotti, who must weigh tactical continuity against the risk of losing a midfield engine in crucial fixtures. Modric’s experience, vision, and ability to unlock tight defenses are central to Madrid’s approach, especially in a game where Betis, under Pellegrini, tends to press high and pursue space in behind the defense.
Betis have built a reputation for turning big games into tactical puzzles. They routinely push with numbers forward, challenging Madrid to defend compactly and transition quickly. The Sunday encounter could hinge on how well Madrid manages positional discipline and how Betis exploit any gaps in a shifting backline. The absence of Alaba would further test Madrid’s ability to marshal a stable defensive unit while Mendy recovers from his injury and plays a role in both defense and departure from the left side.
The match promises a battle of midfield intelligence and ball progression. Modric’s absence would be felt in the tempo of Madrid’s play, as well as in the team’s ability to break lines with measured passing and timing. Yet the current Madrid squad has depth and resolve, traits that have carried them through demanding stretches in La Liga and European competition alike. The tactical plan is likely to lean on a blend of control, patient buildup, and the occasional sudden spark that Modric often provides when on the field.
On the Betis side, the squad will aim to control the central zones and press Madrid into making mistakes in their own half. The balance between pressing intensity and maintaining defensive shape will be crucial, especially with the crowd’s energy backing the home team at Villamarín. The fixture is a reminder that La Liga’s traditional powerhouses must adapt to the unique challenges posed by a Betis side capable of turning momentum with quick transitions and smart use of space behind the lines.
Overall, this clash will test Real Madrid’s depth and leadership in midfield, a theme that has defined their campaign as they navigate a demanding schedule. The strategic emphasis will revolve around maintaining possession, creating quality chances, and limiting Betis’ opportunities to counter. As always in these games, small margins can decide the outcome, from set-piece organization to the timing of decisive runs in the final third.
Follow all the details of Real Betis vs. Real Madrid in LaLiga 2022-23 as the two clubs vie for position, momentum, and silverware potential in a season that continues to deliver drama and anticipation for fans across the two nations.
Luka Modric had not missed a game with his team since October 5 last year, the day they faced Shakhtar Donetsk in the group stage of the top European competition. It will be a difficult absence to replace as he is a Ballon d’Or winner and one of the key pieces in Madrid’s successes. The coaching staff will look for a way to maintain control and creativity through the midfield, relying on other experienced players to shoulder more responsibility in Modric’s absence. (Goal)