Giovani Lo Celso
BET
Confirmed absent for season opener
Lo Celso (muscular) will not be available for Betis's season opener against Real Sociedad after failing to train with the group ahead of the match, according to coach Manuel Pellegrini.
Analysis: Lo Celso's absence is a real blow for coach Manuel Pellegrini given the Argentine's importance in the creative zone, forcing the coach to rework his midfield for a demanding opening test. The club is being cautious with his physical situation, preferring not to take unnecessary risks so early in the season and choosing to wait until he's fully recovered before reintroducing him to competitive action. Lo Celso is expected to remain out until his fitness allows for a safe return, with Betis leaning on squad depth to maintain their attacking threat in his absence.
Scores direct free kick
Lo Celso scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal), one cross (one accurate) and one corner in Saturday's 3-1 victory against Jordan.
Analysis: Lo Celso was Argentina's standout performer in Saturday's 3-1 win over Jordan, curling a precise free-kick into the corner in the first half to open the scoring, then adding one accurate cross, one interception, one tackle and two chances created across his 60 minutes. The midfielder became the first Argentina player other than Messi to score at this World Cup, and his set-piece delivery and creativity in tight spaces give Scaloni an important technical option heading into the round of 32 against Cape Verde. His set-piece delivery and creativity in tight spaces give coach Lionel Scaloni an important technical option heading into the round of 32 against Cape Verde.
Credited with assist
Lo Celso assisted once to go with one cross (zero accurate) and one corner in Friday's 1-1 draw versus Real Madrid.
Analysis: Lo Celso came off the bench in this draw but appeared at the perfect time for Betis, setting up Hector Bellerin's equalizer in stoppage time. As talented as Lo Celso is, he doesn't have a steady role in the lineup, which limits his fantasy upside overall. He should remain a bench option for the time being.
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