Villarreal will host Espanyol on Monday evening, both teams aiming to improve their recent performances in La Liga. The Yellow Submarine currently sits fourth in the standings with 42 points, while Espanyol is sixth with 34 points, just ahead of Celta Vigo.
Match Preview: Villarreal vs Espanyol
Villarreal has a noteworthy record this season, tallying 13 wins, three draws, and five losses across 21 matches. They boast a strong home performance, having collected 25 points from 11 home fixtures. However, Villarreal’s recent form has been troubling, recording two losses in their last three league matches, and they have not won at home since January 10.
Meanwhile, Espanyol has achieved relative success, managing to secure 34 points in 22 matches. Despite their good start, they have fallen into a slump, with three consecutive losses against Girona, Valencia, and Alaves. They have not won in La Liga since December 22.
Head-to-Head Record
- Villarreal has won their last six matches against Espanyol.
- The last defeat to Espanyol occurred in January 2020.
- The teams met earlier this season, where Villarreal won 2-0.
Current Form
Villarreal’s La Liga form shows the following results: LWWLLD, while their overall form across competitions is WLLLLD. In contrast, Espanyol’s recent performances in La Liga include: WLDLLL.
Team News
Villarreal will face significant challenges, missing players such as Logan Costa, Pau Cabanes, Willy Kambwala, and Juan Foyth due to injuries. Additionally, Alfonso Pedraza is suspended. Late fitness tests are pending for Ayoze Perez, Alfon Gonzalez, and Thomas Partey, with potential absences affecting the matchday squad.
On the other hand, Espanyol will be without Javi Puado due to a long-term injury. Ramon Terrats and Carlos Romero cannot participate against their parent club. Pere Milla is the team’s top scorer this season, with six goals, while Roberto Fernandez will add attacking depth with five goals and three assists this campaign.
Projected Lineups
| Villarreal | Espanyol |
|---|---|
| Junior | Dmitrovic |
| Mourino | El Hilali |
| Veiga | Calero |
| Marin | Cabrera |
| Cardona | Salinas |
| Pepe | Lozano |
| Parejo | Zarate |
| Gueye | Dolan |
| Moleiro | Exposito |
| Moreno | Milla |
| Mikautadze | Fernandez |
Predictions
Both Villarreal and Espanyol are struggling to find consistent form, making this a crucial matchup for both. A draw may be likely as both teams aim to secure at least a point to stabilize their seasons.
