Pellegrini Confirms Isco and Three Real Betis Players to Miss Sporting Braga Clash

G. E (Elbotola)

14 April 2026at09:17

Real Betis are finalizing their preparations for the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final against Portuguese side Sporting Braga, with coach Manuel Pellegrini confirming significant absences from the squad.

The squad will be without captain Isco Alarcón, despite his participation in group training. Ángel Ortiz and Junior Firpo are also unavailable due to injury, while defender Natan is suspended after the first leg in Portugal ended in a 1-1 draw.

The Andalusian team held their final training session on Tuesday, with the coaching staff focusing on putting the finishing touches before hosting their Portuguese opponents.

Pellegrini clarified that Isco would not be available for this crucial encounter. He stated, “I confirm that the captain will not be present against Braga, and we will have to wait until the next training session to definitively confirm his condition.”

Real Betis will host Sporting Braga this Thursday (20:00 GMT+1), with the first leg in Portugal having finished in a 1-1 draw.

Q&A

What key players will Real Betis miss against Sporting Braga?

Real Betis will be without captain Isco Alarcón, despite his recent participation in group training. Additionally, Ángel Ortiz and Junior Firpo are injured, and defender Natan is suspended for the crucial Europa League quarter-final second leg.

How will these absences impact Real Betis's Europa League chances?

These significant absences will challenge Real Betis in their crucial Europa League quarter-final second leg against Sporting Braga. The team must adapt without key figures as they aim to advance in the competition, following a draw in the first leg.

What is the latest update on Isco's return to play?

Coach Manuel Pellegrini confirmed Isco will miss the Braga match, stating the team must await the next training session to definitively confirm his condition. His availability for future games remains uncertain following this crucial encounter.