Untitled Document

2011-12

Liga Profesional de Fútbol
Location: Seville
Dates: Sep 2011- May 2012
The Spanish first division schedule is brutally long, especially when there is no World Cup or European Championships to be played during the summer. This is good news if you are visiting and want to catch a match. While you should pull for Betis, I realize some of you may have a weakness (and it is a very sad weakness) and need to see a match no matter what. The benefit of having two teams in Seville means there is a match almost every weekend.

Betis vs. Villareal Betis-Villareal
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 7 April 2012
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
In a match held on Easter Sunday Villareal comes to Benito Villamarin in some shape or another. This year has not been Villareal's best, spending much time in the lower half of the league table. Meanwhile, Betis will likely be fighting somewhere in the middle. There will likely be a lot at stake in this match which means it should be a good one.

Betis vs. Osasuna Betis-Villareal
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 14-15 April 2012
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Osasuna has been enjoying a decent season close to the UEFA section of the table. But they've also had some of the ugliest losses this year and even if against the best teams it's never fun to drop games against Barcelona by 8-0 and then Real Madrid 7-1! and And whenever they come to play Betis I of course have fond memories of our victory in the Copa del Rey in 2005 in Madrid.

Betis-Atletico Betis vs. Atletico Madrid
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 28-29 April 2012
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
To bclose out the month of April and recover from the Feria hangover, Atletico comes to town with a good group of fans following them. My dislike for the team would be less if it wasn't for the annoying fan who showed up at the bar when we were at the beach a few years ago. After a few shouts of toma as his team scored two goals against Betis I was ready for him to tomar something por su something in order to shut up.

Betis-Sporting Betis vs. Sporting
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 7-8 January
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Sporting is trying to move their way into a safer position in the league, and by this time the match could be very important with few points separating the two teams as they finish the first half of the season. Betis will be fighting to keep out of relegation or looking for a victory to move to safer territory. Either way, the match with our "neighbors" from the north should be a good one.

Betis-Sevilla Betis vs. Sevilla
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 21-22 January
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
A big match which was originally scheduled to be in August. Not much to be said for a game that speaks for itself. Betis - Sevilla is the city rivalry, and like any rivalry no matter where the teams are in the league table it is always a battle. This year Sevilla finds themselves closer to the top, but not by much as they are struggling to meet last year's success. Betis should be ready to try and knock them down a place or two in the city derby.

Betis-Sevilla Betis vs. Granada
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 28-29 January
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
It took more than 35 years for Granada to make it back to first division, and they've started well enough to keep themselves there for another year. Betis will be hoping to keep themselves perfect against Granada after winning 0-1 in Granada early in the season. The game will be important for both to get the second half of the season off to a ghood start.

Betis-Athletic Betis vs. Athletic Bilbao
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 11-12 February
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Athletic comes into town just a few days before Valentine's Day! But don't expect much love between the two teams this or any year for that matter. Athletic will offer a good match - after all they are one of the few teams which have never been relegated to second division! Both teams will be looking to better their standing in the league table.

Sevilla-Ateltico Sevilla vs. Atletico Madrid
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 4 March
A key match-up which could have UEFA implications for next year. Atletico seems to have made the right moves in the last few years and have a good team which should challenge Sevilla. This rivalry has grown and there have been a few clashes between the fans in both stadiums. But the city should welcome plenty of madrileños. I for one welcome them until they come to play Betis ;)

Betis-Real madrid Betis vs. Real Madrid
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 11 March
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
As with every year expect a whole new truckload of expensive players when Madrid rolls into town. Always full of stars, Real Madrid produces large crowds just about anywhere they travel. And with the AVE connecting Madrid and Seville there should be plenty of visitors from the capital in Seville for this one. I'd love to see the day they approve a salary cap to make things fair...

Sevilla vs. Barcelona
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 17-18 March
Sevilla has been moving along this season, but unlike past years they have not been such a force in the first division. They now welcome Barcelona who should be looking to score more after some difficulties during the first half of the seasons. Tickets should be available the day of the match but will be more expensive than usual. Expect plenty of people showing up to see the stars play for Barsa.

Betis-Racing Betis vs. Racing Santander
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 24-25 March
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
The last home match in March for Betis sees Racing Santander come to town in a battle of the green-and-whites. This should be an important match for Betis who have a month filled with difficult competition, coming off a match with Real Madrid at home a few weeks before. Racing and Betis may still be fighting to keep themselves in primera.

Betis vs. Villareal Betis-Villareal
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 8 April
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
In a match held on Easter Sunday Villareal comes to Benito Villamarin in some shape or another. This year has not been Villareal's best, spending much time in the lower half of the league table. Meanwhile, Betis will likely be fighting somewhere in the middle. There will likely be a lot at stake in this match which means it should be a good one.

Betis vs. Osasuna Betis-Villareal
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 14-15 April
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Osasuna has been enjoying a decent season close to the UEFA section of the table. But they've also had some of the ugliest losses this year and even if against the best teams it's never fun to drop games against Barcelona by 8-0 and then Real Madrid 7-1! and And whenever they come to play Betis I of course have fond memories of our victory in the Copa del Rey in 2005 in Madrid.

Betis-Atletico Betis vs. Atletico Madrid
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 28-29 April
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
To bclose out the month of April and recover from the Feria hangover, Atletico comes to town with a good group of fans following them. My dislike for the team would be less if it wasn't for the annoying fan who showed up at the bar when we were at the beach a few years ago. After a few shouts of toma as his team scored two goals against Betis I was ready for him to tomar something por su something in order to shut up.

Sevilla-Betis Sevilla vs. Betis
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 2 May
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
As the season comes to a close one of the biggest matches of the year for both teams arrives. The match should have been at the beginning of the second part of the season but due to a player strike things changed. It's much better to have this game at the end of the year anyway. Be prepared for a heated match between the two rivals and enjoy the atmosphere whether you're in the stadium or a local bar.

Betis vs. Barcelona
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 12-13 May
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
The last home game for Betis as well as the last game of the season and it's a big one! Barcelona arrives in Seville to take on Betis for a match which will determine the final positions in the league table. Barcelona is of course always a difficult game but Betis generally gives them a good fight. In recent years the two have met in the Copa del Rey and Betis did well even when in second division.

Betis - Levante Betis vs. Real Sociedad
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 26-27 November
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
In celebration of Thanksgiving Day (ok, of course they aren't celebrating Thanksgiving) Betis welcomes Real Sociedad on the weekend of 26-27 November. Betis has been going through a rough patch and hopefully by this time things will be straightened out! As bad as it's been for Betis, Real Sociedad has been suffering the most and has found itself at the bottom of the league table for the most of the season so far.

Betis Barsa The Superbowl
Location: Watch in Tex-Mex Bar (calle Placentines)
Dates: 6 February
web: texmexsportsbar.com
The Tex Mex Bar is one of a very few which will stay open until the game ends. However, reservations are highly recommended. The Tex Mex Bar will have drink specials, hot wings for fifty "centimos" and more. Expect the two viewing areas (front bar plus back dining room) to be very full! Again, if you happen to have Digital Plus (Spanish satelite) you can catch the games on Sportmania, Canal Plus Deportes and Canal Plus.

Watch the MLB Playoffs
Location: Texas Lone Star Saloon, Seville
Dates: September, October
The Major League Baseball playoffs can be hard to catch, especially if it's a night game. For the earlier games you can try the Texas Lone Star Saloon, about a half a block from the Cathedral on calle Placentines. The Tex Mex Bar, as it is known locally, offers an atmosphere from back home and on weekends they're open until 2am. You can also try Merchants or Flaherty's Irish pubs.

Rugby World Cup
Location: Merchant's Malt House, Texas Lone Star Saloon or Flaherty's, Seville
Dates: September, October
The 2011 Rugby World Cup will heat up in October as the playing field is whittled down. The best spots to catch the games is always in a local Irish or English pub, but even the Texas Lone Star Saloon will have the games. My personal favorite would be Merchants Malt House on Calle Canalejas close to the Plaza de Armas. Get there early to get a good seat!

ARCHIVE FOOTBALL

Sevilla vs. Real Madrid
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 26 April 2009
Real Madrid always draws a crowd from the north as well as a strong group of tourists looking to get a glimpse at the team. This could be a key game for both sides if Sevilla manages to cut into Madrid's lead in the table. And Madrid will likely still be looking to catch Barcelona for the league crown. I would expect this to be an expensive ticket, but it's worth it if you come to cheer for Madrid!

Betis vs. Atletico Madrid
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 3 May 2009
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
To begin the final month of the season, Atletico comes to town with a good group of fans following them. My dislike for the team would be less if it wasn't for the anooying fan who showed up at the bar when we were at the beach. After a few shouts of toma as his team scored two goals against Betis, I was ready for him to tomar something por su something in order to shut up. It will be a difficult match, and much will depend on which Atletico shows up - the competent team or the one that seems to screw things up when they need an important win.

Betis vs. Numancia
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 5 April 2009
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Numancia is having a hard time keeping things competitive this season in first division, and will likely enter this game near the very bottom of the league table. This will be an important game for both teams to keep moving towards the middle of the pack. Hopefully Edu will be back for Betis in time for this one - we need the extra offense and good things always seem to happen when he is in the game.

Sevilla vs. Getafe
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 12 April 2009
Getafe comes to town, certainly in a worse position than they would have hoped at this point in the season. Sevilla is fighting to keep their advantage over other teams looking for a spot in Champions, with likely very minimal hopes of reaching either Madrid and Barcelona. This game marks the end of the Semana Santa, and everyone's mind will be on finishing up the season as well as the Feria de Abril in just a few weeks.

Betis vs. Sporting
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 19 April 2009
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Sporting has quietly moved their way into a safer position in the league, but by this time the match could be very important, with few points separating the two teams. Betis will either be fighting to keep out of relegation or looking for a victory to move to safer territory. Either way, the match with our "neighbors" from the north should be a good one.

Betis vs. Valencia
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 22 April 2009
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
After a good start to the season, Valencia has been slumping recently, and after falling out of the UEFA spots will be looking for a win. As always there will be a warm welcome for Joaquín, but that should be short lived. Once the game starts thing should heat up as both teams battle for what will be an important three points at this stage of the season.

Sevilla vs. Barcelona
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 30 November
Sevilla has been cruising along this season, but unlike Betis a lot of the difficult teams have yet to come. They face a tough stretch, having tied against Valencia and now welcome Barcelona, who should be looking to score more after a disappointing match against Getafe. Tickets should be available the day of the match, but will be more expensive than usual.

Betis vs. Espanyol
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 7 December
Sandwiched between two national holidays, Betis will take on Espanyol, a team which is always a tough competitor no matter where they play. Espanyol is currently near the bottom of the league table, although things could change by the time they play this match. Betis should have their hands full in what should be an exciting game.

Sevilla vs. Villareal
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 14 December
Continuing the tough stretch of games, Sevilla welcomes Villareal, one of the toughest sides in the league this year. To keep themselves in position for the UEFA or Champions, a win is crucial against a rival in the same position in the league table. Villareal hopes to come in and spoil the happy holidays that Del Nido has planned.

Betis vs. Athletic Bilbao
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 21 December
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Athletic comes into town just one day after the new Metro opens in Seville! While the two are hardly related, and the metro line stops nowhere close to the stadium, surely some Betis fan from outside the center will enjoy a trip on the Metro, then transfer to a bus and arrive to see the game. Seriously, Bilbao will offer a good match, and they are one of the few teams which have never been relegated to second division!

Sevilla vs. Osasuna
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 4 January 2009
After several games against top competition, Sevilla will rest for the holidays and then get ready for the league's worst team, Osasuna, who only just won their first match of the year in late November. Sevilla should have no problems with Osasuna. But their is always that letter to Santa, or maybe I should say the Three Kings, which some little Osasuna fan will write, asking for a victory. They wouldn't want to disappoint a little kid, would they?

Betis vs. Malaga
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 11 January 2009
As the holiday hangover ends and the January sales begin, Betis will host their rival from the Costa del Sol, including several former Betis players such as Fernando and Miguel Angel. This is the second to last match before the first half of the season finishes. Both teams will be looking to finish on a high note before entering the final half of the season.

Betis vs. Barcelona
Location: ????
Dates: 30 March
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
In a match sandwiched between Seville’s two largest events (Semana Santa and the Feria de Abril), Barcelona comes to town in what will likely be an important match for both teams – to catch the league leader or keep in the middle of the league table. Because of a bottle throwing incident, the stadium may be closed, As of the morning Friday 28 March no decision yet on the venue...

Betis vs. Real Madrid
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 28 Sep
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
As with every year, there is likely to be a whole truckload of new, and expensive players signed by the time Madrid rolls into town. Always full of stars, Real Madrid produces large crowds just about anywhere they travel. And with the AVE connecting Madrid and Seville there should be plenty of visitors from the capital in Seville for this one. I'd love to see the day they approve a salary cap to make things fair...

Sevilla vs. Villareal
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 7 April
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Villareal has hopes of a league title, and staying in positions for Champions next year. Sevilla hopes to make their way into Champions, or at least a spot in the UEFA as their chances for any kind of championship this season are now officially over. Villareal will return to Seville just a month later to play Betis, and hopes the city will treat them kindly.

Betis vs. Levante
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin o Estadio Olimpico
Dates: 13 April
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Levante is practically guaranteed a place in 2nd division and the players haven't been paid in who knows how long. Still, they are fighting every match, and Betis is fighting to stay in 1st division, with much better chances. We'll see where this match will be played out as the home stadium will likely be closed again unless the sanctions are reduced for the bottle throwing incident. Take in the match, then head to the Feria for the last night!

Betis vs. Villareal
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 27 April
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
In what will likely be the first match back in Benito Villamarin, the timing will be critical as Villareal could be playing for the league title, and almost certainly a spot in Champions. Meanwhile, Betis will likely need a victory to secure their future in first division for the coming season. There will be a lot at stake in this match which means it should be a good one.

Betis vs. Murcia
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 2 March
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Murica, currently in the position of relegation, will try to fight their way out in February and March, while Betis will do their best to further the distance from the bottom of the league table. In the last month the teams have seen opposite fortunes, with Murcia on the decline and Betis more or less on the rise.

Sevilla vs. Atletico Madrid
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 23 March
A key match-up , certainly with UEFA and Champion’s implications for next year. Atletico and Fernando Torres seem to have made the right moves, as both have seen more success since parting ways last year. And another game in which the city should welcome plenty of madrileños. I for one welcome them, until they come to play Betis ;)

Betis vs. Atletico
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 2 December
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Atletico Mardird is having one their stronger years after several trying to break into the top level. Betis is struggling with a new coach, rumors of a sale and some anxious fans. A good group of rival fans should make their way to the stadium for the match which shuld make for a good atmosphere.

Betis vs. Almeria
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 16 December
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Atletico Mardird is having one their stronger years after several trying to break into the top level. Betis is struggling with a new coach, rumors of a sale and some anxious fans. A good group of rival fans should make their way to the stadium for the match which shuld make for a good atmosphere.

Sevilla vs. Betis
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 6 January
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
A big match on a special day - Reyes! Not much to be said for a game that speaks for itself. Betis - Sevilla is the city rivalry, and like any rivalry no matter where the teams are in the league table it is always a battle. This year Sevilla finds themselves on top, but not by much as they are struggling to meet last year's success. Betis should be ready to try and knock them down a place or two in the city derby.

Betis vs. Celta
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 7 January - 17:00
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
The second half of the season kicks off on the weekend of Reyes, and Betis takes on Celta in what should be an interesting first game for the new mister, Luis Fernandez. This is also the first game of the 100th year anniversary of Betis, as they hope to work their way out of the bottom of the league table.

Betis vs. Zaragoza
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 11 November
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Victor Fernandez (ex-coach of Betis) and Ricardo Oliveira (ex-player of Betis) come to Sevilla in what should be a difficult match-up for Betis. Zaragoza defeated Sevilla FC 2-0 a month ago, but has also failed to show up against stronger rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in recent matches.

Sevilla vs. Mallorca
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 25 November
Mallorca has started strong, while Sevilla has started poorly, but are just recently starting to come around in league play. Our old friend Prats is no longer the goalkeeper for Mallorca! Shuld be a good match and hopefully Mallorca will give Sevilla some prolems.

Sevilla vs. Betis - Copa del Rey
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 1 February - 21:00
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
February brings us something special, which has never happened before: 3 matches in one month between city rivals Betis and Sevilla. The first stars on 1 February with the first leg of the Copa del Rey quarterfinals being played in Sanchez Pizjuan, home of Sevilla FC.

Betis vs. Sevilla
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 10 February
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Not much to be said for a game that speaks for itself. Betis - Sevilla is the city rivalry, and like any rivalry no matter where the teams are in the league table it is always a battle. This is the regular league match between the two Copa matches. This year Sevilla finds themselves on top, but Betis should be ready to try and knock them down a place or two in the city's derby.

XXIII City of Seville Marathon
Location: Estadio Olimpico
Dates: 11 February
web: www.imd.sevilla.org
Now in it's 23rd year, the Seville City Marathon begins and ends in the Olympic Stadium, just outside the city center. Show up to see them start around 9 in the morning, or finish some 3 - 5 hours later. Many streets will be blocked so you can likely find a spot around the city to see the action.

Skiing: Women's World Cup 2007
Location: Sierra Nevadas (Monachil, Granada)
Dates: 23,24,25 February
web: sierranevadaski.com
After a four year absence on the World Cup scene, the Sierra Nevadas are hosting the women in an official weekend of World Cup skiing. It all starts with the practice runs on 23 February, and competition for the days of 24 and 25 February. The conditions have gotten much better over the last few weeks, so hopefully there will be good snow for the event.

Betis vs. Recreativo Huelva
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 25 February
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
The interprovincial derby! Ok, maybe that's reaching a little, especially in a month with 3 official derbys. But there is always a bit of tension in this match. This year Recre is doing very well and Betis is looking to continue a good start to the second half of the season. And there always seems to be a small, rowdy bunch who make the trip from Huelva to see the match.

Betis vs. Sevilla - Copa del Rey
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 28 February - 21:00
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
28 February is the Dia de Andalucia, or Andalucia Day! And the colors of Andalucia are...Green and White! A nice touch for the final of 3 matches between Betis and Sevilla. This one will decide who advances to the semifinals of the Copa del Rey and will be the 4th and final derby of the season.

Betis vs. Real Madrid - Copa del Rey
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 11 January - 21:00
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Sixteen teams are left in the Copa del Rey (King's Cup). Betis got a tough draw with Real Madrid, and a home and away series for the 11th and 18th of January. The first leg is in Seville at Estadio Benito Villamarin with Betis under the direction of new head coach Luis Fernandez.

Betis vs. Racing Santander
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 21 January
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Starting a one week, three game home stand, Betis takes on Racing Santander in a battle of the green-and-whites. This should be an important match for Betis who have a month filled with difficult competition: Real Madrid twice (Copa), Barcelona and Valencia.

Betis vs. Barcelona
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 24 January
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Originally scheduled for December, this match belongs to the first half of the season but was postponed for Barcelona to make a trip eastward. Now Betis will take on Barcelona during a difficult stretch of the second half of the season. This should be a good match!

Betis vs. Valencia
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 28 January
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
We welcome back Joaquin, who unfortunately will be playing for Valencia. Betis lost the the away match 2 - 1 with Joaquin on their side and will certainly be looking for a little revenge. Valencia has had an up and down first half of the season and will be looking for better results.

World Games: Non-Olympic Sports
Location: Seville
Dates: Jul, Aug, Sep
web: sevilla2006juegosmundiales.com; Calendar (pdf)
Over three months in and around Seville you can watch many sports which may one day, or never, be in the Olympics. Seville is hosting the Juegos Mundiales de Deportes no Olímpicos this summer, and you can enjoy the following in a competitive format: motor sports, chess, padel, bowling, water rescue, kickboxing, polo, rugby, skating, fishing and more...

Betis vs. Athletic Bilbao
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 10 Sep
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Our neighbors from the north pay a visit to Benito Villamarin in the second week of league competition. Did you know Bilbao has always been in first division? Pretty impressive stat. I don't know what it is, but the Betis-Athletic matches always produce some kind of controversy. We'll see what pops up this time around.

Betis
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 16 December
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Atletico Mardird is having one their stronger years after several trying to break into the top level. Betis is struggling with a new coach, rumors of a sale and some anxious fans. A good group of rival fans should make their way to the stadium for the match which shuld make for a good atmosphere.

Sevilla vs. Betis: The Derby
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 17 Sep
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
Perhaps the earliest the derby has ever been scheduled, things heat up between cross town rivals Real Betis and Sevilla FC in just the third week of league play. You could pull for Sevilla FC, but why? Green and white are the colors of Andalucia, and Sevilla is the capital of Andalucia. The return match will be played in February at the home of real fútbol, Estadio Ruiz de Lopera, or Benito Villamarin as I like to call it.

Betis vs. Real Madrid
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin
Dates: 24 Sep
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
There's no Zidane, but likely a whole truckload of new, and expensive, players will be signed by the time Madrid rolls into town. Always full of stars, Real Madrid produces large crowds just about anywhere they travel. And with the AVE connecting Madrid and Seville there should be plenty of visitors from the capital in Seville for this one.

Recreativo vs. Betis (Copa del Rey)
Location: Estadio Nuevo Colombino
Dates: 25 October: 21:30
web: www.realbetisbalompie.es
The first match-up this year in league play saw Betis give up two late goals. Now in the final 32 of the Copa del Rey, this is the first leg of a home and home series. At the end of October, it's a good time to hit the beaches in Huelva for perhaps one last warm day, and then head to Estadio Nuevo Colombino for the match that evening

Sevilla FC vs. Valencia
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 18 November (22:00)
Welcome back Joaquin, we sure could use you this season, and I am sure you will be less than welcome in Sevilla's stadium. Still, we will be pulling for you to help Valencia score some goals knock Sevilla down a notch or two in the league table!

Real Betis vs. Getafe
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin (Avda. Palmera)
Dates: 16 October, time tbd
League leader Getafe - yes that's right - league leader Getafe comes to Seville without a loss in this years competition. Betis hopes to hand them their first loss and climb out of the bottom of the league table. Edu should be ready to play and things look promising!
More info at www.realbetisbalompie.es

Real Betis vs. Real Madrid
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin (Avda. Palmera)
Dates: 29 October, time tbd
The history of Real Madrid - so many championships and great players bought with the finest Spanish money (and recently many, many bank loans) arrives in Estadio Benito Villamarin for a match up of two of La Liga's Champions League teams. This should be a good match up, and expect many from Madrid to take the AVE down, hopefully to watch their club lose.
More info at www.realbetisbalompie.es

Real Betis vs. Chelsea
(Champions League)
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin (Avda. Palmera)
Dates: 1 November, time tbd
Another clash of two champions from last season. Chelsea, the Premier League champion versus Real Betis, the Copa Del Rey champs. Chelsea has been coveting Real Betis player Joachín for several years, but he's thankfully stayed put. This is also a big family rivalry for me, with supporters of each team on both sides. ¡Viva er Beti!
More info at www.realbetisbalompie.es

Sevilla FC vs. Real Betis - The Derby
Location:Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan (Nervión)
Dates: 19 November, 22:00
The first of two league match ups takes place in Sevilla FC's stomping ground. This is a rivalry which gets downright nasty, so if you wear green and white you may want to avoid the area around the stadium and wait until the return match in the spring. The fans will be ready, Lopera will have some choice words for the "other" club in the week leading up to the match and of course Del Nido's bald head will be polished. ¡Viva er Beti!
More info at www.realbetisbalompie.es

Real Betis vs. Cádiz - The 2nd Derby
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin (Avda. Palmera)
Dates: 27 November, time tbd
Just 7 days after taking on intercity rival Sevilla FC and 4 days after a visit to Liverpool for Champions League, Betis welcomes Cádiz to Seville for an Andalucian and provincial derby. Cádiz was promoted to 1st Division just this year and has been giving other teams some trboule. There should also be a good crowd from the nearby city.
More info at www.realbetisbalompie.es

Real Betis vs. Barcelona
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin (Avda. Palmera)
Dates: 25 September, time tbd
There were two champions last year in Spain. Barcelona won the league title, while Real Betis won the Copa del Rey. The two met this summer with Real Betis losing to Barcelona. Now that the league has begun this should be an important match-up which will influence the standings at the top of the table. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at the stadium, or the day of the game if you show up a few hours in advance.
More info at www.realbetisbalompie.es

Sevilla F.C. vs. FSV Mainz 05
(UEFA Cup)
Location: Estadio Sánchez Pizjuán, (Avda. Eduardo Dato)
Dates: 15 September, 21:30
Sevilla came close to being in Champions last year, but thankfully Betis held on to deprive them during their 100 year anniversary. But Sevilla did make it into the UEFA Cup, and they take on German team FSV Mainz 05. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at the stadium, as well as the day of the match. While not a Sevilla fan, it's nice to see both teams in European competition which brings a lot of visitors to Seville!

Real Betis vs. Liverpool
(Champions League)
Location: Estadio Benito Villamarin (Avda. Palmera)
Dates: 13 September, 20:45
The UEFA Champions League comes to Seville for the first time ever thanks to Real Betis efforts last year. This means visits from clubs such as Liverpool, Chelsea and Anderlecht this fall. If you are unfamiliar with the competition, think of it as the championship for the best clubs from all over Europe, and you have one of the best leagues in the world. Liverpool is up first in September. Tickets can be purchased at the stadium in advance. More info at www.realbetisbalompie.es

Betis - Sevilla
Location: Estadio Manuel Benito Villamarin
Dates: 8 May (22:00, TV: Canal Sur)
They generally happen just twice a year and tickets can be hard to come by. But nobody wants to miss what is always a great rivalry match - the two first division fútbol teams in Sevilla square off with serious implications for the UEFA and Champions. If you head to the game it might be best to hide your team preference no matter who you pull for. At least until you get close to the stadium if you are a Betis fan. You can buy tickets in advance at the stadium or show up the day of and try your luck with resellers. Photos of Betis.

Sevilla - Real Madrid
Location: Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan
Dates: 15 May (time/date can change due to television)
Real Madrid comes into Seville on a roll, hoping to close the gap with league leader Barcelona. Beticos everywhere will of course be pulling for a Real victory, hoping to overtake Sevilla in the league table. Why is there only the team crest for Real Madrid to the right? Well, I am a big Betis fan, and there is simply no way another Sevilla crest is showing up on my page. (It was hard enough just to put one up above!)

Davis Cup Finals
Location: Estadio Olympico
Dates: December 3 - 5th
It's down to Spain and the U.S. in the end of this year's Davis Cup Championship. Sevilla is expecting tens of thousands of visitors who don't even have tickets! For Spanish side you'll see Juan Carlos Ferrero, Carlos Moya, Rafael Nadal and Tommy Robredo. For the Americans its Andy Roddick, Mardy Fish plus twins Bob and Mike Bryan. Tickets through El Corte Inglés, although the link is pretty much useless. There were only 3,600 available to the public in Sevilla, on sale on November 25th. They are all sold now and going for as much as 1000€ on the internet. More information on the Official Davis Cup page.

World Wakeboarding Championships
Location: Guadalquivir River
Dates: October 13-17th
Boasting 160 riders from over 26 countries, this year's Wakeboarding Championship makes it's first appearance in Spain. Three nights of music on Isla Cartuja will also be part of the festival, and no, Eminem will not be making an appearance. So what is wakeboarding? Think of a boat, a guy with a rope and a mix between surfing and water skiing. It should provide some fun along the river in October. More info on the official site.

# Muleta A small red cloth stretched over a stick (Palo)
# Capote The red cape
# Paseillo The parade of fighters at the beginning
# Corrida A Bullfighting show
# Espada The matador's sword also called the ESTOQUE
# Matador The top bullfighter
# Novilladas Beginners fights
Rejoneo
# Rejoneadores Horse-mounted fighters
# Toril Enclosure for the bulls
# Picador Fighter to weaken the bull
# Banderillas Barbed darts on coloured shafts placed into the bull's shoulders
# Puntilla A dagger that is stabbed into the base of the bull's skull
# Puerta grande The main door to the arena
# Gradas Highest seats at the back of the ring (cheapest seats)
# Barreras Front seats
# Sol/Sombra Sun/Shade - the choice as to where you sit
Sombra
Sol y Sombra
# Plaza de Toros Bullring

Semana Santa vocabulary:

costalero
nazareno
paso = procession
virgin = virgin
cristo - christ
torrijas - like french toast, a typical food prepared in Semana Santa
la salida - the exit of a procession from a church (the start of the procession)
la entrada - the entrance of a procession in a church (the end of the procession)
incienso - incense
vela - candle
hermandad - church fraternity or brotherhood
La Madrugada -

Feria Vocabulary

caballo - horse
Charco de la pava - possible new setting for Feria in the years to come

coche de caballo - horse drawn carriage
corrida - bullfight
jerez - sherry
fino - sherry
Los Remedios - neighborhood next to Feria grounds
Sevillanas - flamenco-like dance with origin in Sevilla,
tienda - tent
traje - dress or suit
borracho - drunk (estar borracho = to be drunk; ser borracho = to be a drunk)

Sevillanas both the music and dance typical of Seville’s April Fair, influenced by flamenco.

Alumbrado the official opening of the week-long April Fair, the streets of the Fair and the portal are all lighted at once, at midnight on Monday evening.

Caseta roughly1000 brightly coloured canvas tents, set up especially for the April Fair.

Portada de feria the main entrance to the April Fair, every year it is designed differently, representing a different architectural masterpiece typical of Seville.

El Real the site or grounds of the Fair.

Enganches horse-drawn carriages, especially decorated for Seville’s April Fair.

Traje de flamenco the typical dress worn by women in the Fair. Different in design every year, it is always floor-length and is generally brightly-colored.

Traje corto the typical dress of men in the April Fair (although not so commonly worn). It consists of tight-fitting trousers, a short jacket, and a characteristic brimmed hat.

Corrida de toros bull fights, traditionally the most spectacular during the April Fair in Seville.

Sajones chaps worn by horse riders during the Fair of Seville.

Fino dry white wine or sherry from Jerez, typical drink of the April Fair of Seville.

Manzanilla dry white wine or sherry from Sanlucar, typical drink of the April Fair, whose primary distinguishing characteristic is that it is less hangover-causing than Fino.

Rebujito a light, refreshing drink consisting of Fino or Manzanilla and Sprite.

Pescaito fried fish and seafood, typically eaten at the Fair of Seville and especially the evening of the alumbrado.

Churros con chocolate strips of fried bread dough with cups of thick hot chocolate, typical breakfast at the Seville’ April Fair after a night of eating, drinking and dancing.

Calle del infierno the part of the April Fairgrounds with rides and attractions, called ‘hell street’ because of its extreme loudness.

Shopping Vocabulary - stores

ferreteria

panaderia

horno

pasteleria

carneceria

charcuteria

chacineria

zapateria

tienda de alimentacion

bars and restaurants

bodega

cerveceria

restaurante

bar

casa

meson