Guimarães Gears Up for Betis Clash
The only Portuguese side left standing in European competitions, Vitória de Guimarães, heads into their match against Real Betis with an unblemished record in the UEFA Conference League. Having emerged from the qualification rounds with six wins, they achieved four victories and two draws in the league stage, securing second place behind Chelsea and earning direct passage to the knockout stages.
In their previous encounter in Seville, Guimarães showed resilience, equalising twice against Betis after going a goal down to strikes from Cédric Bakambu at 48 minutes and Isco at 76 minutes, with João Mendes (51) and Nélson Oliveira (81) finding the net for the visitors.
Freire Prioritises Team Freshness
Despite a commendable display that showcased his squad's potential, coach Luís Freire has remained pragmatic, emphasising the need for focus ahead of facing a side tipped to contend for the Conference League. “We can’t control what our opponents think nor will we give them that power. We’ve returned with a draw, not a lead, and now it’s a fresh game. The score is level, and we intend to impose our game. We’re fully aware of what we must do on the pitch, and know the strengths of our experienced opponents,” he remarked.
The starting XI for the 'conquerors' may well see the return of several familiar faces, with Bruno Gaspar and Jesús Ramírez returning from injury, leaving only Gustavo da Silva sidelined. For this fixture, Freire is likely to reinstate six players who were rested against Boavista - Nuno Santos, who was serving a suspension, will also rejoin the fold. Expect Mikel Villanueva, Hevertton Santos, Tiago Silva, Nuno Santos, Amaro Embaló, and Nélson Oliveira to take the stage for what promises to be a memorable night.
Betis Prepares Accordingly
On the opposing side, Real Betis' Manuel Pellegrini is well aware of the capabilities of the Portuguese team and is making tactical adjustments following their latest win in La Liga. Key players including Fran Vieites, Perraud, Bartra, Ruibal, Altimira, and Bakambu were rested against Las Palmas, leaving the door open for their inclusion in the starting lineup.
Nonetheless, Pellegrini is not underestimating the challenge posed by Vitória SC. “We head into this match with confidence, looking to secure a favourable result. Ideally, we would like to have an advantage, but this will be a very balanced match. We’re far from discouraged,” he said.
The kick-off is set for 20:00 in Guimarães, officiated by Dutch referee Serdar Gözübüyük. Should they book a spot in the quarter-finals, the Portuguese side will match their best-ever performance in European competitions—reaching the quarter-finals of the 1986/87 UEFA Cup, where they were narrowly ousted by Borussia Mönchengladbach.