Manchester United hopes to rebound from their defeat against Arsenal when they take on Real Betis in friendly action from San Diego.
The Red Devils are concerned after losing two players to injury, but Erik ten Hag’s side performed well in the 2-1 defeat. Real Betis fell 1-0 to Liverpool but there are concerns with their attack, as they managed just one shot on goal in the loss.
Our Manchester United vs. Real Betis predictions and betting picks for Wednesday, July 31 explain why that lack of firepower could be their undoing.
Manchester United vs Real Betis picks and predictions
My best bet:
Manchester United moneyline (+115 at Betano)
My analysis
Striker Willian Jose led Real Betis with 10 goals and five assists in La Liga last season, but departed this summer for Spartak Moscow. Forward Ayoze Perez was the second-best goal scorer in La Liga last season for Betis with nine goals, and midfielder Isco was just one back of him with eight goals to go along with five assists.
But Perez is not with the team, as he’s resting after participating in Euro 2024 with Spain. And compatriot Isco is dealing with recovery from an injury in May, and has not yet returned to full training. In addition, forward Johnny Cardoso is also out after participating in Copa America.
That leaves Manuel Pellegrini with a bit of a toothless attack, with nobody else in the current squad scoring more than three goals in the league last season. Youth product Marcos Fernandez led the line against Liverpool and managed just one shot in 45 minutes.
While Manchester United is likely to be without Rasmus Hojlund in attack after his first-half injury against Arsenal, they don’t lack for choice in the forward role. Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho are expected to partner with Amad Diallo, who has been performing well this preseason.
He created a chance and put an effort on goal against Arsenal, backing up his outing against Rangers in which he found the back of the net. He may get more than just one half here and could cause problems for a Real Betis back line that struggled with Mo Salah’s pace and creativity down their left flank.
It’s been a strong preseason performance for the Red Devils, and they limited Arsenal’s attack to just three shots on goal and six shots in total. They’re showing better rest defense the past two matches and aren’t turning it over in areas where they can get punished on the break.
I’ll take Manchester United at plus-odds to get a victory here. Real Betis is missing too many players in their attack, and that’ll allow the Red Devils to commit more players forward as they seek to break down the Betis back line.
Manchester United vs Real Betis same-game parlay (SGP)
Manchester United moneyline
Under 3.5
Manchester United Over 0.5 goals 1H
This match has the feel of a 1-0 or 2-1 victory for the Red Devils. Betis plays a strong compact style in the back, utilizing a 4-5-1 setup that can be tough to break down. Liverpool managed just nine shots in the entire match, a low number for them, and had only three reach the goal.
However, they missed two of their three big chances, and likely should have won by two goals here. It’s difficult to see this match getting past three goals.
Manchester United will likely rotate at halftime and bring off the majority of their best attackers. That’s why Ten Hag will want to see them perform in the opening 45 minutes.
Hojlund opened the scoring inside a quarter-hour against Arsenal, and Diallo found the back of the net prior to halftime against Rangers. I expect to see more of the same here, with Manchester United doing the same as Liverpool and getting a goal in the first half.
Learn how to bet a same-game parlay with these helpful tips and strategies.
Manchester United vs Real Betis odds
 Manchester United |
 Real Betis |
|
|---|---|---|
| +115 | Moneyline | +200 |
| +265 | Draw | +265 |
| Over 3.5 (+132) | Total | Under 3.5 (-175) |
Odds courtesy of Betano.
Manchester United vs Real Betis game info
| Location: | Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego, CA |
| Date: | Wednesday, 7-31-2024 |
| Time: | 10:00 p.m. ET |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Weather: | Pleasant with temps in low 70s, light winds, 0% PoP. |
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