5 bold La Liga predictions: Real Madrid drop points against Espanyol

5. Betis are finally clinical in front of goal

Quique Setien’s side were the surprise package last season, finishing sixth. A 1-0 win at the Santiago Bernabeu and a 5-3 win over local rivals Sevilla were two of the highlights from the season. They did finish with a negative goal difference, which shows the openness of their expansive, possession-based style.

This season has seen them start with five points from four games and score only one goal, which was the winner against Sevilla. They have hugely underperformed in front of goal, though, with a total xG of 4.99, per Understat. They don’t have any issue creating chances, which suggests they should start converting soon. There was a lot of change in the summer, as seven new players were brought in. It’s those players are still adapting to Setien’s tactical set-up and their play should be a lot more free-flowing when that happens.

Athletic Bilbao are the ideal opponents because they are yet to play away from home and come into this match after a spirited performance in the draw against Real Madrid. Eduardo Berizzo likes his sides to play a high-pressing style defensively — although he’s tactically flexible — so that should play into Los Verdiblancos hands. They can extend the pitch due to their confidence on the ball. Newly-promoted side Huesca showed in the 2-2 draw that they can be exposed defensively.

Players such as Takashi Inui, Giovani Lo Celso and Ryad Boudebouz should have plenty of space to work in and open up Bilbao once the press is bypassed. Expect Antonio Sanabria or Inui to finally open up their league account. A strong start could see the team grow in confidence, and this tactical battle has the potential to be a high-scoring affair. Bilbao’s main threat is likely to be absent as well: Iker Muniain picked up an injury in the last match, so this is a big chance for Betis to grab their second league win of the season.