The last 16 of the UEFA Cup is in full swing this evening as Manchester United take on Betis in their home stadium. After a recent humiliating defeat, United are desperate to clear their name, and with 6 wins and 1 draw in their last 7 Cup matches, plus an unbeaten record at home, they are determined to avenge Betis in tonight's match, and are favored on a handicap of 1/1.5 goals. (Live on Now Channel 643 at 4am on Friday)
Although Manchester United suffered an unexpected 0-7 defeat at the feet of Liverpool in the last round of the league, which was the biggest defeat in the club's history, Coach Tannhäuser, who is known for his strictness, not only increased the intensity of the training, but also let the players watch the bad performance in the "Double Red Clash", which inspired their self-esteem and fighting spirit by provoking them. The last defeat seemed to be due to negligence, and the players' attitude towards the end of the game left a lot to be desired, but under Tan's supervision, it is expected to improve.
In fact, Manchester United have been in excellent form in this year's cup competition, having just won the EFL Cup last week, ending a six-year title drought, and showing momentum to win the UEFA Cup with six wins and a draw in their last seven matches, including eliminating La Liga table-toppers Barcelona in the UEFA Cup play-offs. It was as if they were repeating the feat of the 2016/17 season, when United won both the EFL Cup and the UEFA Cup. In addition, United's home ground advantage in Otford is obvious, with an impressive 16 wins and 1 draw in their last 17 matches, 12 of which have netted at least two goals against their opponents, which is undoubtedly a nightmare place for Betis.
Although Bedis' recent record is not bad, its victories mainly came from weaker teams such as Emilia, Huaradulye and Elche, which should not be overestimated. Especially in the match against Elche, although it won 3-2, but paid the price of a serious injury to the left knee of the center of the midfield, Fecchia, the French player has been relegated to early retirement this season. Fecchia has made 20 appearances this season, scoring 6 goals and contributing 3 assists. His absence will undoubtedly weaken the attacking strength of Bredis, and Manchester United is expected to take this opportunity to clear the gloom.
