The last time these two teams met, Villarreal emerged with a dramatic 3-2 victory at Barcelona's stadium. This Sunday, the league's best defence hosts its most potent attack in a clash that could define the title race.
It's La Liga action on Sunday, December 21, as leaders Barcelona travel to the Estadio de la Cerámica to face a formidable Villarreal side in third. Hansi Flick's Blaugrana aim to extend their lead, while Marcelino's men look to prove they are genuine contenders.
📈Team Form📉
🔸 Villarreal: Third in La Liga with 35 points from 15 matches.
🔹 Barcelona: Top of La Liga with 43 points from 17 matches.
📊Key Stats & Head-to-Head 📊
🔥 Barcelona are on a seven-match winning streak in La Liga.
🔥 Villarreal are on a six-match winning streak in La Liga.
🔥 Barcelona have scored 49 goals in 17 league games, the best attack in the division.
🔥 Villarreal have conceded only 13 goals in 17 league games, the best defence in the division.
🔥 Barcelona has the historical upper hand with 34 wins to Villarreal's 12 in 56 meetings.
🔬 What to Expect From Both Teams 🔥
🟡Villarreal | La Liga Form: W🟢W🟢W🟢W🟢W🟢W🟢:
Despite recent disappointments in the Copa del Rey and Champions League, Villarreal have been flawless in La Liga. They are unbeaten at home this season, turning their stadium into a fortress.
However, they face a defensive injury crisis, potentially missing up to nine players, including key defenders. Their stellar home record and resilient streak will be put to the ultimate test against Barcelona's firepower.
🔵Barcelona | La Liga Form: W🟢W🟢W🟢W🟢W🟢W🟢:
Hansi Flick's side has been relentless in the league, winning seven consecutive matches to build a four-point lead at the summit. Their approach has been clear: outscore opponents with a league-high 49 goals.
They travel to face a top-tier defence but will be confident after a strong run of away results. The mission is to end 2025 on a high note and quash any doubts about their title credentials.
👥 Predicted Lineups 👥
🟡Villarreal (possible):
Junior, Navarro, Veiga, Marin, Pedraza, Buchanan, Parejo, Comesana, Moleiro, Perez, Mikautadze.
🔵Barcelona (possible):
Joan Garcia, Kounde, Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, Balde, De Jong, Pedri, Yamal, Raphinha, Rashford, Torres.
🔥 Matchups & Players to Watch 👀
✨ Alberto Moleiro — The Villarreal winger is having a breakout season and leads his team with six league goals.
✨ Lamine Yamal — A constant threat in Barcelona's attack, key to maintaining their winning run.
✨ Gerard Martín — Recently converted to centre-back by Flick, he faces a major test against Villarreal's attackers.
✨ Gerrard Moreno — If fit, his experience in attack will be vital for Villarreal to control the game.
💵 Odds Market on MSport 💵
💵 Villarreal/Home to win = 3.65
💵 Barcelona/Away to win = 1.85
💵 Both teams to score (GG/NG Yes) = 1.32
💵 Over 2.5 total goals = 1.29
This clash presents a classic battle of styles: Villarreal's ironclad defence against Barcelona's explosive attack.
With historical dominance favouring Barcelona but recent form promising a close fight, the Estadio de la Cerámica is set for a thrilling conclusion to 2025 in La Liga.
Who do you think will take the points? Tell us your prediction in the comments.
🔗 You can follow the Villarreal vs Barcelona game here on MSport.
#Villarreal #Barcelona #LaLiga #Marcelino #Flick #EstadioDeLaCeramica
#VILBAR #Yamal #Raphina #Moreno #Partey
