Real Madrid vs Villareal: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Published at :December 15, 2023 at 2:26 PM

Modified at :December 27, 2023 at 5:37 PM

Los Blancos are chasing Girona for the spot at the top of the league

Real Madrid settled for a draw in their match against Real Betis. The game ended without a decisive winner, resulting in both teams sharing the points. Despite their efforts, Real Madrid couldn’t secure a victory, which has affected their position in the LaLiga. Real Madrid have the benefit of playing first this weekend and can put pressure on their unlikely title rivals.

Villarreal faced a setback in their recent match on December 9, succumbing to a 3-0 loss against Real Sociedad at their home ground. This defeat was a significant setback for Villarreal, as they were unable to secure a victory despite playing in familiar surroundings. The team might be evaluating their performance and tactics to bounce back stronger in their match against Real Madrid.

Kick-Off:

Monday, 18 December 2023 at 3:00 PM ET (1:30 AM IST)

Location: Santiago Bernabeu

Form:

Real Madrid (in Laliga): D-W-W-W-D

Villareal (in Laliga): L-L-W-D-L

Players to watch:

Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)

Jude Bellingham Champions League — **Bellingham has recorded 12 goals and two assists for Real Madrid so far this term**

Bellingham has proven to be a pivotal asset for Real Madrid, showcasing remarkable statistics of 12 goals scored and two assists provided. His consistent goal-scoring ability and contributions to setting up plays have established him as a vital contributor to the team’s success. His multifaceted skills and knack for both scoring and creating opportunities make him a standout performer for the club.

Gerard Moreno (Villareal)

Moreno just like Bellingham has been exceptional for his team, both these players have been at the top of their form in LaLiga this season. Moreno has been a potent force in the league, boasting eight goals, a tally that positions him as the fourth-highest goal scorer. Additionally, he has contributed with two assists, showcasing his proficiency not only in finding the back of the net but helping his teammates.

Match facts:

Real Madrid have kept the most clean sheets in the LaLiga this season (8).
Villareal have failed to score in their last 2 matches.
Real Madrid scores 2.1 goals per game (second in LaLiga), while Villarreal gives up 1.8 goals per match (18th in league).

Injury & Team News

Real Madrid continues to face the absence of seven key players: Vini Jr, Courtois, Camavinga, Militao, Carvajal, Tchouameni, and Guler. These players are set to remain sidelined for the rest of the year due to long-term injuries, with their return to the field anticipated in 2024. Kepa made his return from injury against Union Berlin in the Champions League clash.

Yeremi Pino, Santi Comesana will miss playing time until next year. Aissa Mandi will return from injury in late December and Denis Suarez is doubtful for the away team in this match.

Head to Head

Total Matches – 25

Real Madrid wins – 11

Villareal wins – 4

Draws – 10

Predicted Lineup:

Real Madrid predicted lineup (4312):

Kepa; Garcia, Alaba, Nacho, Vazquez; Modric, Valverde; Ceballos; Bellingham; Rodrygo, Joselu

Villareal predicted lineup (442):

Jorgensen; Foyth, Albiol, Cuenca, Alfonso; Altimira, Capoue, Parejo, Baena; Moreno, Morales

Match prediction for Real Madrid vs Villareal:

Real Madrid, having secured three wins and two draws in their recent league outings, are displaying consistent and promising performances. Villarreal’s current form is concerning, as they’ve managed just one victory in their previous five league matches. This stark contrast in form between the two teams suggests that Villarreal could face another challenging fixture against a Real Madrid side that appears to be in a strong and consistent rhythm.

Prediction: Real Madrid 2-0 Villareal

Telecast

India – Sports 18, JioCinema

UK – Viaplay, ITV

US – ESPN+

Nigeria – DSTV, Gotv

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