Cédric Bakambu, the Congolese international forward, is set to start for Real Betis on Thursday in their King’s Cup opener against Gévora. This matchup in the tournament’s first round marks a significant opportunity for Bakambu, who has yet to score for Betis this season, with his last competitive goal coming on February 22 against Dinamo Zagreb in the Conference League.
Since that last goal, Bakambu has faced a challenging period, largely sidelined by a serious injury sustained at the end of last season.
His recovery has been gradual, and while he’s returned to active competition, the 32-year-old has yet to regain the sharp form that earned him the nickname “Bakagoal” for his prolific scoring.
A Test of Form and Opportunity
Thursday’s King’s Cup game offers Bakambu a valuable chance to reestablish himself as a top offensive threat for Betis. Having recently made his return, he will be looking to regain the confidence that once made him a sought-after striker.
His transition back has been slower than anticipated, and Betis will be closely watching his performance to assess his fitness and form as they progress through the season.
Bakambu, who once represented France at the youth level before opting to play internationally for the Democratic Republic of Congo, has had a varied career that included notable stints in Turkey with Galatasaray and in Spain.
Known for his speed and clinical finishing, he has developed a reputation as a versatile striker, capable of adapting to diverse styles of play across leagues.
Winter Window Warnings
This King’s Cup fixture is also a critical point in Bakambu’s season as it could determine his future at Betis. Since joining the club, Bakambu has struggled to find consistent minutes and maintain peak form.
The winter transfer window, now looming, presents a potential turning point: if his performances fail to impress, Real Betis may consider alternative options in their forward lineup, potentially opening the door for a transfer.
Betis fans and coaching staff will be hopeful that Bakambu can rediscover his goal-scoring touch in the Cup match against Gévora, aiming to remind them of the talent that once made him a prolific force in front of goal.
For Bakambu, Thursday’s game represents a key moment to demonstrate his readiness to be a regular starter and avoid what could be an untimely exit from the club in January.
With the King’s Cup offering a fresh start, all eyes will be on Bakambu as he takes to the pitch, keen to reignite his career at Real Betis and reclaim the form that once defined him as one of the continent’s top strikers.
Tengo clarísimo el 11 que debería salir en copa ante el CD Gevora:
Fran Vieites
Sabaly – Natan – Mendy – Ricardo
Losada – Mateo – Dani Pérez – Juanmi
Bakambu – AssaneMáximo se pueden 4 fichas de filial, en el banquillo jugadores como Jesús Rodríguez o Guirao.
— ⚡ (@ByPabloxX2) October 28, 2024
