Real Betis vs Elche: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview

A crucial Copa del Rey match is set to unfold as Real Betis hosts Elche at Estadio La Cartuja on Wednesday. Both teams head into this last-16 encounter following 1-1 draws in their respective league matches.

Match Preview

Real Betis, currently struggling, has gained only one point from their first two matches in 2026. Their recent performance includes a heavy 5-1 loss to Real Madrid. However, they salvaged a draw against Real Oviedo thanks to a late equalizer from Giovani Lo Celso.

In La Liga, Betis has secured just one victory in their last five matches, with two draws and two losses. This leaves them in sixth place, five points behind Espanyol and precariously above Celta Vigo based on goal difference. They face a challenging home match against Villarreal shortly after this cup tie.

Historically, Betis has reached this round for the fifth time in six seasons, progressing past Atletico Palma del Rio, Torrent, and Real Murcia. Their home record in recent competitive matches is promising, with four wins in their last six, including a solid 4-0 triumph at La Cartuja.

Elche’s Current Standing

Elche finds itself in ninth place in La Liga, six points behind Betis. This marks their first season back in the top flight since 2022-23. Much of their success has been at home, where they’ve claimed 19 of their 23 points this season.

In their last league match against Valencia, Elche’s Grady Diangana conceded a penalty, leading to a 1-1 draw. The team had hoped for its first away league win of the season, but Pepelu’s penalty equalizer dashed those hopes.

In the Copa del Rey, Elche has proved resilient, overcoming teams like Los Garres and Eibar to reach the last 16 for the second consecutive year. They aim to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since their runners-up finish in 1968-69.

Team News

Real Betis is dealing with several injury concerns. Cucho Hernandez is expected to miss three to four weeks due to a thigh injury. Angel Ortiz and Junior Firpo also suffered injuries, with Firpo sidelined for at least a month. Playmaker Isco continues to be out with an ankle injury, while Sofyan Amrabat and Abde Ezzalzouli are with Morocco for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Elche’s defense will be without Hector Fort and Rafa Mir due to injuries. Andre Silva will miss another game, and there are questions surrounding John Donald’s fitness. Pedro Bigas is also a concern after his knee injury against Valencia.

Predicted Lineups

Prediction

The forecast for this match suggests a 3-1 victory for Real Betis. Despite recent struggles, Betis’ home performance and Elche’s away difficulties should tip the balance in favor of the hosts.