Pellegrini proud as injury-hit Betis keep punching above their weight
The Engineer hails his squad's maturity as they complete the second win of their La Cartuja trilogy, climbing to fifth in La Liga despite their injury woes.
Betis are showing the sort of resilience that would make a Millwall fan proud, battling through injuries and a hectic schedule to keep their European dreams alive.
La Cartuja becomes a fortress
Manuel Pellegrini’s men have turned La Cartuja into something of a happy hunting ground this week. After Thursday’s Europa League triumph over Feyenoord secured their place in the last 16, they’ve now followed it up with a crucial league win against Valencia that propels them to fifth in the table.
The Chilean gaffer was quick to acknowledge the difficulty of managing these Thursday-Sunday turnarounds that so often leave teams running on Adam and Eve by the weekend.
“A pesar de las lesiones, hemos sabido responder,” said Pellegrini, highlighting his squad’s ability to overcome their injury crisis.
Second-half improvements
The match itself wasn’t all champagne football from the Verdiblancos:
- First half lacked creative spark according to Pellegrini
- Introduction of Fornals after the break proved decisive
- Victory allows them to close gap on Champions League spots
Two down, one to go
This victory marks the second successful step in Betis’ three-match home stand at La Cartuja, with perhaps the toughest test still to come. Atlético Madrid await in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals on Thursday, completing what Pellegrini called a “trilogy” of crucial home fixtures.
Transfer deadline looms
With the January window closing imminently, all eyes are now on potential reinforcements. Reports suggest Betis are still hoping to secure one or two signings before the deadline to bolster their squad for the business end of the season.
Despite some grumbles from sections of supporters in recent weeks, Pellegrini praised the fanbase for their continued backing through a congested fixture list with some proper dodgy kick-off times.
The Engineer’s men now sit just behind the Champions League places, with Pellegrini reminding everyone there are still 48 points to play for in what remains their priority competition.