Real Betis Balompié is set to face a significant challenge this evening against Dinamo Zagreb, but the attention is also drawn to the imminent absence of two key players.
Forwards Ez Abde and Cédric Bakambu will don the green-and-white jersey for the last time tonight before heading off to join their respective national teams in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Advertisement
This situation, though anticipated, presents a hurdle for Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini. In his pre-match press conference in Zagreb, the Chilean tactician acknowledged the departure of both players: “Tonight is the last match for Abde and Bakambu. For various reasons, we couldn’t hold onto them. It’s difficult to comment on matters beyond your control. We have a squad, and those available will be on the field.”
The upcoming Africa Cup of Nations will leave Betis without two vital attacking assets. Abde, who has been called up by Morocco, and Bakambu, set to represent the Democratic Republic of the Congo, will be missed for several weeks, affecting both LaLiga and the Copa del Rey depending on how far their national teams progress in the tournament.
Betis has attempted to retain some of its African internationals, as Pellegrini indicated, but ultimately, national team commitments and regulations have taken precedence.
Advertisement
This dual absence compels the ‘Engineer’ to rethink his offensive options, placing his confidence in the remaining players available in the squad.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
📸 Fran Santiago – 2025 Getty Images