Real Betis will play the LVII edition of the Trofeo Colombino against Recreativo de Huelva on Wednesday 22 July. The match, which will kick off at 20:30 at the Estadio Nuevo Colombino, can be followed live on Betis TV.
Real Betis faces its second pre-season test with a classic of the Andalusian summer: the LVII edition of the Trofeo Colombino, which will see them take on Recreativo de Huelva next Wednesday 22 July at 20:30 at the Estadio Nuevo Colombino. The tournament, organised by the Dean of Spanish football since 1965, is the oldest of those held during the summer period in Spain and this year brings together two historic clubs of Andalusian football once again.
A Betis in the making with new faces and familiar ones
For Manuel Pellegrini's side, the match will serve to continue fine-tuning the machinery ahead of the 2026-27 season. Following the training camp in Germany, the Chilean coach will be able to count on Facundo Bernal and Fran García, who will get minutes again, and it is highly likely that Diego Conde, the new green-and-white goalkeeper, will debut in the Betis shirt. The heliopolitan fans are eager to see the new signings, but also the youth players who left a good impression in the match against Stuttgart: Morante, Manu González, Pablo García, Iván Corralejo, Valentín Gómez, or Petit.
However, if there is one name that excites particularly, it is Isco. The Malagueño, who has resolved his personal matters, could make his return after getting back into shape. Although Abde and Antony are still working specifically and it is almost impossible for them to play, the possibility of seeing the former Madrid player on the pitch at the Colombino is an extra incentive for Betis supporters.
History and prestige at stake, even if it's friendly
The Trofeo Colombino, which reaches its 57th edition this year, has its own significance in the history of Spanish football. Recreativo de Huelva is the most decorated club in the tournament, with 14 Silver Carabelas in its trophy cabinet. Betis, on the other hand, will be seeking its sixth title, a trophy it hasn't lifted since 2015. Although the match is just a pre-season friendly, the clash between two historic Andalusian clubs always carries a sense of rivalry and pride.
For Betis fans, the match is also an opportunity to see their team in a different setting and to gauge the team's form ahead of the league start. The pre-season is a period of trials, but also of feelings, and a good result against the Dean always leaves a positive impression.
How and where to watch Betis-Recreativo
The match can be followed live on Betis TV, the official channel of the green-and-white club, which will provide full coverage of the game. Additionally, the heliopolitan team will also broadcast the match through its website, its official app, and its YouTube channel. So no fan will miss the chance to see their team in this summer classic.
From the newsroom, and with the pre-season in mind, one must ask: will this be the edition in which Betis breaks its nine-year drought without lifting the Carabela? Because, although it is a friendly, winning is always nice, especially if it’s in Huelva and with Isco in magician mode. We shall see.

