Atletico Madrid will aim to get their La Liga title race back on track when they host Villarreal at Wanda Metropolitano this Saturday. Diego Simeone’s side sits second in the La Liga table, just two points behind leaders Real Madrid, and will be eager to close the gap. Villarreal, in fifth, is looking to break into the top four and secure a spot in next season's Champions League.
Recent Form
Atletico Madrid’s 15-match winning streak across all competitions ended last weekend in a surprising 1-0 loss to Leganes. However, they bounced back in midweek, defeating Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 in the Champions League. Their impressive form at home, with 26 points from 10 matches, will be a key factor in this upcoming fixture.
Villarreal, on the other hand, has had a mixed season. Despite showing promising attacking form, they’ve struggled with consistency. Their defense has conceded 31 goals in 20 matches, and they have just a handful of wins over the last month. However, Villarreal will come into this match full of confidence after two wins in their last three La Liga outings.
Key Players to Watch
For Atletico, Antoine Griezmann has been the standout player, leading the attack with his creativity and goal-scoring ability. Expect him to play a pivotal role in unlocking Villarreal's defense. Julian Alvarez, another key forward, will also be crucial for Simeone’s side.
Villarreal’s Ayoze Perez is the player to watch. After returning from injury, he’s been in great form, scoring 11 goals this season. His partnership with Thierno Barry in the attacking setup could pose problems for Atletico’s defense.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Atletico Madrid: Simeone may switch to a 4-4-2 formation, with Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez leading the charge in attack. Conor Gallagher is likely to start, and Robin Le Normand will fill in for the suspended Javi Galan at full-back.
Villarreal: Villarreal will likely feature Ayoze Perez and Thierno Barry in a front two. Alex Baena, who is reportedly a transfer target for Atletico, is set to start on the wing.
Possible Starting Lineups:
- Atletico Madrid: Oblak; Molina, Gimenez, Lenglet, Le Normand; Simeone, De Paul, Barrios, Gallagher; Griezmann, Alvarez
- Villarreal: Luiz Junior; Femenia, Foyth, Costa, S Cardona; Pino, Gueye, Parejo, Baena; Perez, Barry
Prediction: Atletico Madrid 2-1 Villarreal
This match promises to be a close contest. Atletico’s home advantage, combined with their recent resilience in the Champions League, gives them the edge. Villarreal, despite their attacking prowess, will find it difficult to overcome the strong Atletico defense. Expect Simeone's men to secure a narrow win.
