Preview: Real Betis vs. Barcelona

Barcelona will be looking to continue their record-breaking start to the La Liga season when they travel to face Real Betis on Sunday.

Barca currently sit six points clear at the top of the table having amassed 40 points from a possible 42 so far this season - the best ever start in La Liga history.

However, Betis have been something of a surprise package so far, sitting in fourth place after 14 games having already beaten Real Madrid at the Estadio Benito Villamarin.

The hosts are missing a number of first-team players, however, as Juan Carlos, Ale Martinez, Mario, Paulao and Damien Perquis are all unlikely to be included due to injury.

Barcelona could be without talisman Lionel Messi after he picked up a knock in their midweek Champions League tie, but if the Argentine does start then he could break Gerd Muller's record of 85 goals in a calendar year with a brace.

Dani Alves and Alexis Sanchez are also out for Barca as they look to make it eight league wins in a row.

Betis managed a 2-2 draw against Barcelona in the corresponding fixture last season.

Recent form

Betis: WLLWW

Barcelona: WWWWW

Possible starting lineups

Betis: Adrian; Javi Chica, Antonio Amaya, Dorado, Nacho; Benat, Canas, Jorge Molina; Ruben Castro, Salva Sevilla, Campbell

Barcelona: Valdes; Adriano, Pique, Mascherano, Jordi Alba; Xavi, Busquets, Fabregas; Pedro, Villa, Iniesta

Sports Mole says: 0-3