The Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal clash this weekend is set to deliver fireworks in La Liga. Diego Simeone’s side looks to build momentum after a midweek Champions League win, while Villarreal aims to extend their attacking form. This preview breaks down team news, key stats, and predictions for Saturday’s showdown.
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Match Overview: Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal
Kick-off Details
- Date/Time: Saturday, January 25, 2025 | 3:15 PM (UK) / 10:15 AM (ET) / 7:15 AM (PT)
- How to Watch:
- UK: Premier Sports (TV/Online)
- US: ESPN/ESPN+ (TV/Online)
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Atletico Madrid: Defensive Absences
Atletico Madrid faces suspensions to defenders Clement Lenglet and Javi Galan, both sidelined after accumulating fifth yellow cards. Striker Alexander Sorloth remains questionable with a minor knock.
Predicted XI (4-4-2):
Oblak; Molina, Le Normand, Gimenez, Lino; G. Simeone, De Paul, Barrios, Gallagher; Griezmann, Alvarez
Unavailable: Lenglet (suspended), Galan (suspended)
Questionable: Sorloth (injury)
Villarreal: Stability in Attack
Villarreal’s dominant 4-0 win over Mallorca last week means minimal changes. Midfielder Ilias Akhomach is ruled out with a knee injury, but Gerard Moreno and Yeremy Pino lead a potent attack.
Predicted XI (4-4-2):
Junior; Femenia, Foyth, Costa, Cardona; Pino, Gueye, Parejo, Baena; Gerard, Barry
Unavailable: Akhomach (injury)
Questionable: Conde, Pedraza (injuries)
Key Stats and Trends
- Goals Galore: Villarreal’s matches average 3.45 goals per game (69 goals in 20 La Liga fixtures).
- Atletico’s Resilience: Simeone’s men have won 15 of their last 17 matches across competitions.
- Head-to-Head: Atletico won 3-1 in their last meeting (April 2024).
Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal Prediction
Atletico Madrid’s midweek Champions League comeback against Bayer Leverkusen showcased their grit, but defensive suspensions could leave them vulnerable. Villarreal, fresh from a four-goal blitz against Mallorca, will test Atletico’s reshuffled backline.
Prediction: Atletico Madrid 2-1 Villarreal
Betting Tip: Both Teams to Score (✅)
Final Thoughts
The Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal clash promises end-to-end action, with both sides favoring attacking football. While Atletico’s home advantage and depth may edge the result, Villarreal’s firepower ensures goals.
