Betis kick off 2026 with no rest as Pellegrini's triple-front campaign continues
Real Betis enter the new year still alive in three competitions, with Champions League qualification a real possibility if they can maintain their impressive away form.
The Verdiblancos aren’t easing into 2026 with Pellegrini scheduling a closed-door training session on New Year’s Day as they prepare for a crucial visit to the Santiago Bernabéu this Sunday.
Triple-threat Betis
As has become something of a tradition in recent seasons, Betis enter another calendar year still fighting on three fronts - a proper Bobby Dazzler of a campaign so far. They’re currently sitting pretty in sixth place in La Liga with 28 points from 17 matches, keeping them firmly in the European qualification spots.
What’s particularly interesting is their position just five points behind fifth place, which could potentially offer Champions League football next season depending on how Spanish clubs perform in continental competitions. They’ve also built a comfortable five-point cushion over their closest challengers below them.
Home struggles, away day kings
Pellegrini’s men have been absolutely mint on their travels this season - unbeaten away from home in the first half of the campaign. However, they’ve dropped too many points at their temporary La Cartuja home, with draws becoming a bit of a bad habit.
Their next two league fixtures present contrasting challenges:
- A daunting trip to face Real Madrid at the Bernabéu
- A more manageable home tie against Oviedo
If they can push past the 30-point mark in these two matches, they’ll be on course for a 60+ point season - almost certainly enough to secure European football for a sixth consecutive season. That would guarantee at least €20 million in additional revenue to continue the club’s growth.
Cup dreams alive
While the league remains Pellegrini’s bread and butter, Betis have two additional routes to European glory. In the Copa del Rey, they await the quarter-final draw on January 7th, with the potential bonus that they can’t face any of the Spanish Supercup teams (Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atlético Madrid and Athletic Club).
In the Europa League, mathematical qualification for the knockout phase is already secured, but victories in their remaining group games against PAOK (away) and Feyenoord (home) in late January could send them directly to the round of 16, avoiding the playoff round and ensuring the second leg at home.
After reaching the Conference League final against Chelsea last May, the dream of another European final remains very much alive - with the added carrot that Europa League success would deliver that coveted Champions League spot.