Villarreal CF vs Real Madrid CF Match Preview

What we know

Villarreal FC is currently 3rd in La Liga but is coming off a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Ajax. Meanwhile, Real Madrid is looking to reclaim the top spot after a successful run in the league.

Availability

Villarreal will be without Juan Foyth for the rest of the season due to a recent injury. There are currently no reported suspensions for either team.

Predicted Lineups

• Villarreal CF: Junior (GK), Navarro, Veiga, Foyth, Pedraza, Buchanan, Parejo, Gueye, Moleiro, Perez, Mikautadze
• Real Madrid CF: Courtois, Valverde, Asencio, Huijsen, Carreras, Camavinga, Güler, Bellingham, Mastantuono, Mbappé, Vinicius

Tactical note

Villarreal will need to maintain a solid defense against a high-scoring Real Madrid team, while looking to exploit counter-attacking opportunities given their strengths in midfield.

What to watch

Keep an eye on the performance of Real Madrid’s Mbappé and Vinicius, who have been key in their attacking plays. Villarreal's response will be crucial to their performance in this pivotal match.