Manchester United vs Real Betis

Old Trafford forms the backdrop for the first leg of a handsomely-looking Europa League last-16 tie between Manchester United and Real Betis.

Spirits in the Manchester United camp must be at an all-time low after suffering the heaviest defeat in the club’s history as arch-Premier League rivals Liverpool thumped them 7-0 at the weekend. Therefore, the upcoming Europa League return may serve as a perfect distraction, especially considering Erik ten Hag’s lads overcame runaway La Liga leaders Barcelona 4-3 on aggregate in their mouth-watering knockout playoff contest. Interestingly, the ‘Red Devils’ haven’t lost the first leg of any of their last eight European knockout ties (W4, D4) and can draw further confidence from an outrageous 19-game unbeaten home run in all competitions (W17, D2). Moreover, they’ve been ruthless in the front third at Old Trafford of late, netting multiple goals in each of their last 15 competitive home outings.

Meanwhile, visiting Real Betis were spared in the opening Europa League knockout round after finishing top of Group C without a single loss from six matches (W5, D1). Despite suffering four defeats in their six European encounters against English clubs (W1, D1), it’s worth noting ‘Los Verdiblancos’ last featured in such a fixture in 2005. However, Manuel Pellegrini’s men have claimed just one win in their seven most recent Europa League knockout games (W3, D3). Curiously, though, their three victories at this stage of the competition have come away from home. Another success, though it’d have to arrive at long odds, is on the cards, with Betis winning their last three competitive away outings, including back-to-back 3-2 triumphs in the run-up to this trip.