Real Madrid Set to Unleash Their Firepower Against Real Betis in La Liga Showdown

José Mourinho's strong beginning to his second spell at Real Madrid continues to build.

Los Blancos may not have been at their best in the opening-day victory over Espanyol, but they got the result thanks to new recruit and impact substitute Carlos Espí. Since then, things have gone smoothly, with commanding victories over Real Sociedad and Málaga at the Bernabéu.

Madrid's next fixture presents a sterner challenge, however, and a genuine threat to their perfect 2026–27 record. Mourinho's side travel to face Real Betis on Friday—a ground where Madrid have failed to win in each of their last four visits.

Complicating matters further is the fact that Madrid kick off their Champions League campaign against Serie A title holders Inter just four days after, a factor that could influence the manager's team selection.

Here's how Real Madrid could set up for this La Liga encounter in Andalusia.

Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs. Real Betis

Pick Your Real Madrid XI!

GK: Thibaut Courtois—Madrid's first-choice keeper is targeting consecutive clean sheets after keeping a shutout against Málaga last weekend.

RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold—The Englishman earned his first start last time out and caught the eye with his attacking play from right back, providing an assist for Kylian Mbappé's goal. No player registered more touches against Málaga.

CB: Ibrahima Konaté—Antonio Rüdiger remains an option but could have his minutes carefully managed, particularly with the Inter match just around the corner.

CB: Dean Huijsen—The 21-year-old has enjoyed a very assured start to the campaign and is increasingly looking settled as Madrid's ball-playing center back.

LB: Marc Cucurella—The World Cup winner made his home debut last weekend and should retain his spot ahead of Álvaro Carreras, even with the Champions League approaching.

CM: Federico Valverde—The energetic captain has featured from the start in all three of Mourinho's matches this season.

CM: Bernardo Silva—The 32-year-old started the first two games of the season but was limited to a substitute appearance against Málaga. He could be brought back into the starting XI as Mourinho continues to manage his midfield options.

RW: Yan Diomande—Yet to start since his record-setting €125 million ($145 million) move, could this be Diomande's moment to shine?

AM: Jude Bellingham—An outstanding display against Málaga sparked Ballon d'Or talk from Mourinho. He may have missed his chance this year, but a standout season would surely put Bellingham firmly in the frame for 2027.

LW: Vinícius Júnior—The Brazilian has a modest record against Betis, with just two goals and an assist against Friday's opponents across 14 appearances. The Verdiblancos have proven a real bogey side for Madrid in recent years, winning six times, drawing three and losing only five since Vinícius first faced them in 2019.

ST: Kylian Mbappé—Four goals in three matches represents an excellent start to the season for Mbappé, as he pursues a third consecutive Pichichi Trophy.