Barcelona vs Villarreal
La Liga
Saturday
27th January
Estadio Olimpico de Montjuic
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the La Liga fixture between Barcelona and Villarreal.
Barcelona vs Villarreal: Preview
Barcelona form analysis
FC Barcelona’s form has been inconsistent in recent matches. They suffered a surprise 2-4 defeat to Girona in mid-November, taking an early lead through Lewandowski but conceding three unanswered goals. A week later, they earned a hard fought 1-1 draw with Valencia after coming from behind. At home to Almeria, Barcelona struggled again and needed an 83rd minute winner from Sergi Roberto to claim a 3-2 victory after twice letting their lead slip.
Their first match of the new year saw more dropped points, only defeating Las Palmas 2-1 thanks to a 90th minute penalty from Gundogan. Most recently, Barcelona produced their best performance in a dominant 4-2 victory over Real Betis. Ferran Torres starred with a brace in each half to give them a comfortable two goal lead, before two late goals from the opposition resulted in a nervy finish. While the potent attack has shone at times, Barcelona’s defensive vulnerabilities were again exposed in close matches. Consistency will be key if they are to mount a serious title challenge this season.
Villarreal form analysis
Villarreal have produced mixed results in recent matches. They were convincingly beaten 4-1 by league leaders Real Madrid in mid-December, taking an early lead but conceding four unanswered goals. However, they responded well by defeating Celta Vigo 3-2 at home three days later through goals from Pedraza, Mandi and Parejo from the penalty spot, despite a nervy finish after the lead was halved twice.
Villarreal then earned an impressive 3-1 victory over Valencia in early January with two penalties from Pepelu and another goal securing the points. Their form continued as they dispatched Las Palmas 3-0 comfortably in mid-January. Most recently though, they dropped points for the first time in five matches. When conceding a late equaliser to draw 1-1 with Mallorca. While their attack has fired well at times, Villarreal have struggled defensively in close matches against quality opposition. Maintaining consistency, particularly at the back, will be important if they aim to progress higher on the table this season and qualify for the Champions League.
