Real Betis faces Recreativo de Huelva this Wednesday in the 57th edition of the Trofeo Colombino. The match, which kicks off at 20:30, will serve as the second pre-season test for Pellegrini's side.
Real Betis continues its preparations for the 2026-27 season and this Wednesday plays its second pre-season friendly. The opponent will be Recreativo de Huelva, the oldest club in Spanish football, as part of the 57th edition of the Trofeo Colombino. The match will take place at the Nuevo Colombino stadium starting at 20:30.
For the verdiblancos, the match represents an opportunity to add their sixth Carabela de Plata, the trophy awarded to the winner of this summer tournament. If successful, Betis would equal Atlético de Madrid as the second club with the most titles in the history of the competition, only behind Recreativo itself.
Manuel Pellegrini, who is back on the bench after missing the first friendly for personal reasons, will have several new faces in the squad. Diego Conde, the third signing of the summer, will be available to make his debut in the verdiblanco shirt. Also joining are youth players Manu González and Morante, who are already training under the first team.
On the other hand, the Chilean coach will not be able to field Guilherme Fernandes, whose transfer to Córdoba has been finalised in recent hours. The Portuguese player bid farewell to the club and fans via social media, expressing gratitude for his time at Heliópolis.
Another uncertainty is the presence of Nelson Deossa. The Colombian midfielder is still waiting to resolve his future, with Vasco da Gama as the most likely destination. Pellegrini will decide whether to give him minutes in Huelva or reserve him to facilitate his departure.
Isco Alarcón, who missed the training camp in Germany for personal matters, could also see minutes. The Málaga player has rejoined the group and has trained normally in recent days, so his participation is not ruled out.
Betis arrives at this match after playing a first friendly in Germany, where the team showed good signs despite the defeat. Pellegrini is looking to fine-tune his players ahead of the upcoming league start.
The Trofeo Colombino is one of the most traditional pre-season tournaments in Spanish football. Organised by Recreativo de Huelva, it has been held since 1965 and has featured some of the best teams from the national and international scene. For Betis, it represents a high-level test against a historic rival competing in Primera Federación.
The match can be followed live on Betis TV, the club's official channel, as well as on the verdiblanco team's digital platforms. Extensive coverage is also expected on social media with minute-by-minute updates.
The Betis fans, who always show up for away games, could have a notable presence at the Nuevo Colombino. The club has made tickets available for the match at affordable prices to encourage public attendance at this friendly.
With the season just around the corner, every minute of play is important for Pellegrini. The Chilean coach will use these matches to test systems, give minutes to new signings, and assess the physical condition of the squad. The goal is to start LaLiga with the team in top shape.
Betis, which finished in a comfortable position in the table last season, aims to improve its performance this season. The management has made several quality reinforcements and is confident that the team can compete for European spots. The Trofeo Colombino is the first step to gauge the group's feelings.
The match against Recreativo will also allow fans to see the first developments of the new signings. Diego Conde, a goalkeeper from Villarreal, will be one of the focal points. Youth players are also expected to have the opportunity to prove their worth.
In short, an exciting appointment for Betis fans, who see their team back in competition after a few weeks of training. The Trofeo Colombino, with its history and prestige, is the perfect setting to continue warming up for a season that promises strong emotions.
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