Key Takeaways:
- Barcelona to face Real Betis in Round 30 following their recent triumph over Real Madrid
- Hansi Flick praises the team’s growing strength and emphasises focus on immediate challenges
- Midfielder Gavi declared fit and available for selection after injury concerns
Match Preview: Barca Face Formidable Betis Threat at Montjuïc
Barcelona enter Round 30 of the La Liga season aiming to defend their top-of-the-table status with a crucial encounter against Real Betis. The match is scheduled for Saturday evening at the Montjuïc Olympic Stadium, where the hosts will look to avoid a repeat of their earlier La Liga clash, which ended 2–2 in Seville.
Despite Barcelona’s convincing 5–1 victory over Betis in the Copa del Rey, head coach Hansi Flick was quick to caution against complacency, noting that the scoreline did not fully reflect the balance of play in that encounter.
Hansi Flick when asked about the treble ☘ pic.twitter.com/qHPNS6s7Ou
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 3, 2025
Flick’s Outlook: Respect for Rivals and Focus on Progress
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Flick acknowledged the upcoming match as a significant challenge: “It will be a tough clash. The result in the cup does not reflect how the game actually went. We need to be at the top of our game.”
When asked about the title race, Flick stressed that competition remains open, stating: “There are still nine rounds left, which is a lot. This championship isn’t just about Real Madrid and Barca — there are other competitors who are strong enough to fight for the top spot.”
Performance Growth: Building Momentum Following Atletico Win
Barcelona recently eliminated Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinals, a key result that Flick believes has underlined the side’s improving form: “As I already said, we managed to find our rhythm. In the second half, we defended very well. I’m happy we are getting stronger. It’s normal to make mistakes, but it’s important to prevent those that are avoidable. In the end, the team continues to raise its level and is strong enough to beat anyone.”
Eyes on the Prize but Feet on the Ground
Flick also spoke about maintaining a short-term focus ahead of the campaign-defining derbies against Real Madrid, remarking: “For me, it’s a dream come true to be part of such matches, but right now it’s important to focus only on the next game. Dreams come true not just by working hard, but also by staying focused. I feel that our team believes in itself. We are fighting for all the trophies and are generally in an excellent period. That’s exactly the feeling I want to have and see in the locker room.”
He additionally revealed the level of professionalism and detail present in player monitoring: “The boys are professionals — for instance, I myself track how many hours each player has slept daily.”
Injury Update: Gavi Declared Fit
Barça fans received good news regarding Gavi’s fitness, with the midfielder back in contention for the weekend fixture. Flick explained the reasoning behind his recent absence: “We considered giving him a few minutes against Atletico Madrid, but we had doubts about whether he was fully recovered, which is why I ultimately decided he wouldn’t play. But now I spoke with the doctors and physiotherapists and Gavi is ready for the upcoming match.”
Respect for Pellegrini’s Tactical Acumen
Finally, Flick extended high praise to his opposite number, Real Betis boss Manuel Pellegrini: “He is fantastic and is doing a great job. He knows how to get the most out of every team he leads. Just look at what he’s doing with Antony — that shows the role of the coach.”
Recent Head-to-Head Results
| Competition | Fixture | Result |
|---|---|---|
| La Liga (First Meeting) | Real Betis vs FC Barcelona | 2–2 |
| Copa del Rey | FC Barcelona vs Real Betis | 5–1 |