Prediction: Villarreal vs Valencia

Verdict: Over 2,5 goals – yes

Best Odds: 8/13

Bookmaker: 888sport

Both Valencia and Villarreal are on the race to play in Europe next season, and this meeting on Saturday has all the looks of a pivotal contests for both clubs. While the hosts will try to strengthen their grip to a place in the Europa League’s group stage next season, Valencia enter this game knowing that a win would give them a place in the UEFA Champions League’s group stage next year. The game will be played at Estadio de la Ceramica, and kick-off will be at 19;45 BST.

Villarreal

Counting this fixture, Villarreal have four games left in their Liga campaign and it is undeniable that they are in a good position to secure a berth in the UEFA Europa League next season. El Submarino Amarillo sit in sixth place of the standings with 54 points and currently hold a six-point edge over eight-placed Sevilla, meaning that a win in this contest could – potentially – secure them a spot in the tournament if other results go their way. And to make things even better, Villarreal are coming off some good results of late. They are riding a three-game undefeated run and have won their last two games as well. The fact that they have won three of the last four games against Valencia should boost their confidence as well, and all signs indicate they are on a good run of form heading towards the stretch part of the season.

Team News

Villarreal do not have confirmed absentees ahead of this game.

However, two players might end up missing out since Bruno (leg) and Javi Fuego (ankle) are both doubtful. Both will be game-time decisions for the coaching staff.

Valencia

If Villarreal are on a good run of form, then it would be safe to say that Valencia are on the opposite end of the spectrum. Marcelino’s men are currently riding a four-game winless run – with two draws and two defeats – and last week they settled for a 0-0 home draw against Eibar, another team that is right on the mix for a Europa League berth. The Mestalla outfit have already secured European football for the upcoming season, but their goal is to reach the UEFA Champions League and their path looks quite simple, to be honest. Valencia need to win this game and that would secure them the fourth place in the standings, since they hold an eight-point lead over Real Betis with only three games – including this one – left to play. It seems doable, but they can’t take anything for granted. Especially considering their recent form, and their head-to-head record against Villarreal.

Team News

Francis Coquelin has been ruled out of this game due to an achilles injury.

There are no other noteworthy absences for Los Che ahead of this game.

Key Factors to Consider

• These two sides are going through opposite runs of form at the moment. While Villarreal have won their past two games, Valencia are riding a four-game winless run.
• Villarreal’s last four La Liga games have had over 2,5 goals scored.
• Villarreal also have the edge when it comes to the head-to-head record. El Submarino Amarillo has won four of the last five against Los Che.
• The reverse fixture this season ended with a 1-0 away win for Villarreal at Mestalla Stadium.
• Valencia would clinch their UEFA Champions League return with a win in this game.

Conclusion

Both Valencia and Villarreal have a lot at stake in this game. Expect both teams to play with a very attacking-minded, positive approach.

As such, I expect over 2,5 goals in this one.

Verdict: Over 2,5 goals – yes

Best Odds: 8/13

Bookmaker: 888sport