Betis to test Real resolve

Real Madrid face their first serious test of the new season when they travel to Real Betis in a Spanish first division clash likely to feature plenty of goals.

Vicente del Bosque's side began their league campaign with a leisurely 2-0 victory at home to Espanyol before gorging themselves with an 8-1 King's Cup victory away to fourth division San Sebastian de los Reyes.

Betis, who have themselves been full of goals this season, are sure to provide much tougher opposition. The Seville-based side roared to a 4-2 win at Deportivo Coruna in their opening game of the season and had few problems dismissing third division Jerez 3-0 in the King's Cup.

They can also point to excellent results against Real in their last three meetings. In the league last season Betis beat Real 3-1 at home and clinched a 1-1 draw at the Bernabeu, while in a pre-season game last month they defeated the European champions 2-0.

Even without Ronaldo, who is still not fully fit, Real will have a formidable attacking line-up but Betis believe they are ready to repeat last season's success. "We want to carry on in the same form we've shown so far and that means having a good game against Real," said Brazilian winger Denilson.

"Real will be tough rivals but we'll be going out there to win. We beat them last time by running faster and fighting harder."