Five keys ahead of Betis-Barça at the Benito Villamarín
Adán
The Betis shot-stopper has declared himself a madridista in the buildup to this match and will be eager to frustrate the culés and do his old club a favour.
Foto:Jesus Sancho (Sanchofoto)
Post-derby drop off
The verdiblancos will still be reeling from the 2-0 thumping they suffered last weekend at the hands of cross-city rivals Sevilla at the Sánchez Pizjuán.
Foto:Toni Rodriguez
Messi
After a short-lived dip in form, the Argentine wizard was back to his dazzling best against Depor and Sporting. His ability to drop deep and collect the ball will be a cause of concern for Merino.
Foto:FERNANDO ZUERAS
Rested
Barça come into this game following their first week-long break in two years. With no Champions League football to worry about, Luis Enrique's charges should be fully recharged for tonight's encounter.
Foto:ALEJANDRO GARCÍAEFE
Firepower
In their last 180 minutes of league football Barcelona have netted 14 goals and conceded zero. Nevertheless, against Deportivo at Riazor and against Sporting in the Camp Nou, there were signs that the free-flowing form of old has waned somewhat.
Foto:ALBERT GEAREUTERS