Athletic Coach Ernesto Valverde makes Real Betis favourites for the Copa del Rey tie between the clubs.
Despite Betis sitting bottom of La Liga Valderde was adamant at his pre-match Press conference that the first-leg lead held by Juan Carlos Garrido’s side means they should progress.
“The favourites are the ones who are winning. But it doesn’t mean much to us.
“We won’t shy away from them. But I would love to be in their position because it’d mean we won the first-leg.”
A Ruben Castro goal in the 42nd minute put Betis in front and Valverde is putting the club’s respective League positions out of mind.
“La Liga form doesn’t mean anything. At kick-off time they will be ready, they will come to win.
“Often games are decided by the quality of the players. We have to prevent a repeat of the first-leg.
“We have to respect Betis. They were fourth this time last year.
“Being at San Mames gives us confidence because we still haven’t lost here. We know if we are at our level we are a very hard team to beat.
“But we need to win by more than one goal. Betis will fight for the Cup and we will have to fight hard.”
