Real Madrid's next test in the 2021/22 LaLiga Santander season is a trip to Real Betis on Sunday evening as Los Blancos looks to get back to winning ways.
Things seemed comfortable for Real Madrid against Levante last time out, but had to come from behind to eventually secure a 3-3 draw on Matchday 2 of the LaLiga Santander season. The match against Betis kicks off at 22:00 CEST and we'll be covering the build-up and the game itself on this live blog.
Betis vs Real Madrid LIVE - Latest updates
Our Betis vs Real Madrid live blog starts here, with the team news as soon as it's out and then minute-by-minute updates from the game itself. Remember, the updates nearest the top are the most recent ones.
Ancelotti wants a better defensive performance
"You can't defend with seven or eight in the football of nowadays, as you need to defend with 11," the Real Madrid boss said.
"It's about sacrifice. It's about effort and focus. We have to improve defensively. In attack, we've already been playing well, but it's in defence that we have to improve."
What is Real Madrid's probable XI vs Betis?
Real Madrid started life under Carlos Ancelotti with numerous positives, and the Real Madrid boss is expected to name a similar side to that which drew with Levante. Vinicius Jr and Eden Hazard will likely partner Karim Benzema up top. Meanwhile Isco and Fede Valverde are set to get the nod in midfield, with a central defensive pairing of Eder Militao and David Alaba expected.
What time does Levante vs Real Madrid start?
Given the summer heat, kick off times are a little different to the norm and all matches are taking place in the evening. So, this one is a 22:00 CEST kick off local time, which is 16:00 EDT for those on the USA's east coach and which is 21:00 BST for those in the UK.