Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the La Liga match.
In the previous round, Real Valladolid ended their eight-match winless streak in the league by defeating Alavés away (3:2). Now they face Villarreal, who are showing impressive form early in the season and sit in the top four.
Real Valladolid
Despite their victory in the last round, Real Valladolid remain in the relegation zone. The team struggle defensively, conceding more than two goals per match on average. Their attack isn't much better, with just eight goals scored, and for instance, two of their three goals against Alavés came from penalties. Nearly a third of the way through the season, it looks likely they will spend the next season in the Segunda División and will be a convenient opponent for many teams.
Villarreal
Villarreal have been hit by a series of injuries. The main loss is Ayoze Pérez, who scored six goals in ten rounds. Given the team's attacking style, the absence of their main forward certainly impacts their play, explaining their recent attacking issues, having scored just once in two matches. However, these matches were against a strong Real Madrid and a defensive Getafe. It's important to consider that Marcelino García is building a systematic attacking approach, so losing a key player won't significantly affect their results.
Real Valladolid vs Villarreal Prediction
We believe that Villarreal will score at least two goals in this away match. Yes, they have had difficulties with scoring, but Real Valladolid have one of the worst defences in La Liga, with even the league's outsiders managing to net twice against them.
