Real Madrid vs Real Betis: Title Hopes on the Line at the Bernabéu

A Crucial LaLiga Encounter to Start 2026

Real Madrid and Real Betis meet this Sunday, 4 January 2026, at the Santiago Bernabéu for matchday 18 of LaLiga EA Sports, marking the first match of the year for Los Blancos. This fixture carries significant weight as Real Madrid host Real Betis aiming to close a four-point gap behind leaders Barcelona, making victory essential for their title aspirations.

The match represents more than just three points for both sides. For Real Madrid, a win is essential to keep pace in the title race and start the year with authority, as any setback would increase pressure around the club. Meanwhile, for Betis, earning points in Madrid would provide a significant morale boost and strengthen their push to remain in European positions.

Contrasting Recent Form and Head-to-Head History

The upcoming clash promises to be fiercely competitive based on recent encounters. Recent meetings have been close and competitive, with Betis claiming a 2-1 home victory in March 2025 and Real Madrid winning 2-0 at the Bernabéu in September 2024. Notably, Real Betis won’t be an easy matchup, as Los Blancos have just one win in their last five meetings.

Betis arrive in impressive form, having remained unbeaten in their previous eight away games, yet to lose away from home this season, sitting in sixth place. This formidable away record poses a genuine threat to Madrid’s home advantage.

Key Absences and Tactical Implications

Real Madrid face a significant blow with Kylian Mbappé out for a while with a knee injury. In that context, Rodrygo will be expected to start in the centre of the attacking line. Additionally, Eder Militão and Trent Alexander-Arnold remain out injured, weakening Madrid’s defensive options.

Real Betis also contend with absences. Junior Firpo and Diego Llorente are expected to be unavailable, as is former Real Madrid star Isco. Furthermore, Los Verdiblancos will also be without Cédric Bakambu, Ez Abde and Sofyan Amrabat, who are away representing their countries at the Africa Cup of Nations.

What’s at Stake for Both Teams

Betis are currently sixth with 28 points, occupying UEFA competition spots, under the guidance of experienced manager Manuel Pellegrini showing balance and tactical discipline. Their remarkable unbeaten away record this season demonstrates their capability to compete at the highest level.

For Real Madrid, this match represents an opportunity to build momentum and demonstrate their championship credentials. With Barcelona extending their lead, the margin for error is minimal for both sides. The Bernabéu faithful will expect their team to overcome Mbappé’s absence and deliver a performance befitting title contenders. This encounter promises tactical intrigue, with both teams possessing the quality to influence the outcome in a fixture that could prove decisive in the final LaLiga standings.