Estadio de la Ceramica will host an intriguing La Liga showdown on Sunday as league leaders Barcelona take on third-placed Villarreal. The Yellow Submarine have been solid at home, but they face a Barcelona side in blistering form, unbeaten in their last seven league matches. Softfootball reports that both teams are eager to maintain momentum before the winter break.
Villarreal have been excellent defensively this season, conceding only 13 goals in 15 league matches. However, Barcelona have been clinical in front of goal, scoring 49 times this term, and their attacking threat will test the home side’s sturdy backline.
The last few encounters suggest an exciting clash, especially after Villarreal’s recent wins in La Liga. Barcelona’s official X handle also shared a glimpse of their training ahead of the game, signaling their readiness.Fans can expect a high-paced match reminiscent of Barcelona’s previous triumphs, including their dominant home win over Osasuna that helped them stay at the top of LaLiga.
Team News
Team news shows a few absentees for Villarreal, including Dani Parejo (doubtful) and Gerard Moreno (injured). Barcelona might be without Pedri, Gavi, and Ronald Araujo, leaving Hansi Flick to make key decisions in midfield and attack. Expect Fermin Lopez or Ferran Torres to play crucial roles.
Given both sides’ current form, Softfootball predicts a close contest, but Barcelona’s attacking quality could just edge them past Villarreal in a five-goal thriller.The last meeting saw Real Madrid defeat Villarreal 3-1, with Vinicius Jr.’s performance sparking debates among fans as Los Blancos reclaimed the top spot, adding even more context to this top of the table clash.
Possible Line-ups
Villarreal possible starting lineup:
Junior; Navarro, Foyth, Veiga, Cardona; Buchanan, Parejo, Comesana, Moleiro; Perez, Mikautadze
Barcelona possible starting lineup:
J Garcia; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martin, Balde; De Jong, E Garcia; Yamal, Fermin, Raphinha; Torres
Softfootball Prediction
Expect a thrilling encounter, with both teams pushing for dominance. Villarreal’s solid defence will be tested by Barcelona’s potent attack, while the visitors aim to maintain their unbeaten run in La Liga. Softfootball predicts a narrow but high-scoring victory for the Catalans.
Prediction: Villarreal 2-3 Barcelona
