The upcoming La Liga match between Valencia and Villarreal promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams navigate the early season challenges. The match is scheduled for this Saturday at the historic Mestalla Stadium, where Valencia is looking to improve its standing in the league.
Match Preview: Valencia vs. Villarreal
Currently, Villarreal sits in third place on the La Liga table. They have accumulated 17 points from nine matches, while Valencia lags behind in 14th place, with only nine points. This stark contrast highlights the competitive nature of the league.
Valencia’s Season So Far
Valencia has struggled with a record of two wins, three draws, and four losses so far this season. Their total of nine points places them just three points above the relegation zone. Key results for Valencia include:
- Two home victories against Getafe and Athletic Bilbao.
- A surprise 2-1 defeat to Real Oviedo at home.
- Only two points earned from their last four matches, capped by a goalless draw against Alaves.
Last season, Valencia finished 12th in La Liga, and improvements are needed to avoid a similar fate this year. Interestingly, the previous encounters between these two clubs saw Valencia hold Villarreal to 1-1 draws in both matches.
Villarreal’s Recent Form
Villarreal is eager to return to winning ways after going four matches without a victory in all competitions. Their recent form includes:
- One point from two league matches against Real Madrid and Real Betis.
- A loss to Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League.
The Yellow Submarine boasts five wins, two draws, and two losses this season, allowing them to remain in the title contention. However, despite their strong home record, their away performances have raised concerns, highlighted by only one victory in four away league matches.
Team News
As for team composition, Valencia will miss the services of Mouctar Diakhaby and Largie Ramazani due to injuries. There are also late fitness tests planned for Filip Ugrinic and Dimitri Foulquier. Coach Javi Guerra is expected to maintain a consistent lineup with the reliance on Hugo Duro and Arnaut Danjuma, who have combined for six league goals this season.
Villarreal, on the other hand, will be without Logan Costa, Willy Kambwala, and Pau Cabanes. Nonetheless, changes are anticipated in their starting lineup, with Ayoze Perez and Sergi Cardona entering the fray, along with potential changes in midfield to infuse fresh energy.
Possible Starting Lineups
| Valencia | Villarreal |
|---|---|
| Agirrezabala | Tenas |
| Correia | Mourino |
| Tarrega | Veiga |
| Copete | Marin |
| Gaya | Cardona |
| Rioja | Akhomach |
| Pepelu | Parejo |
| Guerra | Gueye |
| Lopez | Moleiro |
| Duro | Mikautadze |
| Danjuma | Perez |
Prediction
Given Valencia’s lack of recent form and Villarreal’s quest to regain momentum, the prediction leans towards an away victory. Despite being the fresher team, Villarreal is expected to secure a crucial three points at Mestalla, potentially ending with a score of Valencia 1, Villarreal 2.
