The 2025-26 UEFA Europa League group stage continues to heat up as Belgian side KRC Genk prepares to host Spanish LaLiga outfit Real Betis on October 23 at the Cegeka Arena. Marking the very first meeting between these two clubs, this clash promises an intriguing tactical battle with both teams eager to gain crucial points in Group C.
Match Overview
- Date & Time: Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 5:45 p.m. BST
- Venue: Cegeka Arena, Genk, Belgium
- Referee: Elchin Masiyev (with VAR in use)
Racing Genk comes into this fixture having tasted mixed fortunes. After an encouraging 1-0 win against Rangers in their Europa League opener, Genk succumbed to Ferencváros in their subsequent match. Still, their home advantage at Cegeka Arena will be vital in trying to overturn results and climb the group standings.
On the other hand, Real Betis maintains solid form. They began with a draw but followed up with a convincing win over Ludogorets Razgrad, highlighting their intent to make a strong statement in Europe this season. With an unbeaten run spanning seven matches in all competitions, Betis arrives confident and battle-ready despite traveling away from home.
Team Form Guide
| Team | Last 5 Matches (W-D-L) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| KRC Genk | W – W – L – W – D | Three wins in the last five games |
| Real Betis | D – W – W – W – D | Unbeaten in last seven matches |
Key Players to Watch
Racing Genk: Oh Hyeon-Gyu
At 24 years old, South Korean forward Oh Hyeon-Gyu spearheads Genk’s attack. Known for his pace and clinical finishing, Oh will be pivotal in breaking down the sturdy Betis defense. Genk will rely on his skill and creativity to fabricate scoring opportunities on home turf.
Real Betis: Antony
Brazilian winger Antony has delivered a sparkling strike of form, recently netting a sensational brace that secured a thrilling 2-2 draw against Villarreal in LaLiga. His agility and flair on the right flank make him a constant menace for defenders. If Antony continues his rich vein of form, he could prove decisive in this fixture.
Predicted Starting Lineups
KRC Genk (4-2-3-1):
Van Crombrugge (GK); Tshiend, Sadick, Smets, Kayembe; Bangoura, Heynen; Steuckers, Hrosovsky, Ito; Oh Hyeon-Gyu
Real Betis (4-2-3-1):
Lopez (GK); Bellerin, Natan, Gomez, Firpo; Amrabat, Roca; Antony, Fornals, Ezzalzouli; Hernandez
Injury Updates
- KRC Genk: Tobias Lawal and Zakaria El Ouahdi remain sidelined due to injuries, limiting defensive options.
- Real Betis: Key players Isco and Cedric Bakambu are unavailable as they recover from knocks.
Tactical Insights
Both teams favor a 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing balance between attack and defense.
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Genk’s Approach: Leveraging their home advantage, Genk is likely to adopt an assertive style, focusing on swift counters and exploiting spaces in Betis’ midfield. The partnership between their creative midfielders and Oh Hyeon-Gyu upfront will be key.
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Betis’ Strategy: Expect Betis to retain possession, using midfield maestros like Amrabat and Roca to dictate tempo. The attacking trio behind striker Hernandez, especially Antony, will look to stretch Genk’s defense and create goal-scoring opportunities.
Betting Tips and Odds
- Real Betis to Win: 13/10 (BetMGM)
- Cucho Hernandez to Score: Favorable given his attacking form
- Total Goals Under 3.5: 2/5 (bet365), highlighting a potential tight contest
Given Betis’ consistent form and quality in attack, the odds lean slightly in their favor. However, Genk’s home resilience means a tightly contested game is expected.
Match Prediction
This UEFA Europa League fixture represents a significant challenge for both sides eager to claim valuable group points. While Racing Genk will leverage their home ground and local support, Real Betis’ recent unbeaten streak and attacking prowess give them an edge.
Predicted Scoreline: Genk 1-2 Real Betis
Viewing Information
- India: SonyLIV, Sony Sports Network
- UK: TNT Sports
- USA: Paramount+, TUDN
- Middle East/North Africa: beIN Sports
Football fans worldwide eagerly await this exciting continental showdown, where tactical nuances, key player performances, and strategic plays will shape the outcome.
Stay tuned for live updates, expert analysis, and more on the UEFA Europa League by following leading sports outlets and football communities.
