La Liga Encounter: Osasuna vs Villarreal Preview

In an eagerly anticipated La Liga match, Osasuna is set to face Villarreal at the Estadio El Sadar in Pamplona on Sunday afternoon. Osasuna enters the game following a heavy 4-0 defeat against a formidable Real Madrid side, while Villarreal secured a triumphant 3-0 victory over Alaves prior to the international break.

Osasuna has had a mixed campaign so far, securing six wins, drawing three matches, and suffering four defeats, which has earned them 21 points and fifth place in the league standings. Notably, they trail Villarreal, who sits in fourth place, by a mere three points. The team from Pamplona enjoyed a strong run with victories over Real Sociedad, Osasuna, and Chiclana before encountering Real Madrid.

The home form of Osasuna has been particularly impressive; they have accrued 16 points from seven matches at El Sadar, placing them with the second-best home record in the league. Confidence remains despite their recent setback, as they aim to bounce back and solidify their standing near the top of the table.

Osasuna’s recent history against Villarreal has been disappointing, with no wins in their last four encounters, including three losses. Their last home encounter ended in a 1-1 draw during the 2023-2024 season.

Villarreal, known as the Yellow Submarine, embarks on this fixture following three successive victories against Real Valladolid, Poblense, and Alaves. They have been in fine form across all competitions, remaining undefeated since a 2-0 defeat to Real Madrid in early October.

Currently, Villarreal boasts a record of seven wins, three draws, and two losses from their 12 La Liga matches, putting them in a competitive position just three points adrift of second-placed Real Madrid. Villarreal has persistently been one of the higher scoring teams in the league and sits as the third-highest scorers in the current La Liga season, trailing only Barcelona and Real Madrid. However, defensive improvements are still required as they seek to secure a top-four finish.

Osasuna is dealing with potential squad changes due to injuries, with two players doubtful, although one key player is expected to return after recovering from an absence against Real Madrid. Head coach Jagoba Arrasate is likely to keep faith with his existing squad despite their previous defeat.

For Villarreal, the team has been affected by injuries, notably with several players sidelined. These absences could force head coach Marcelino to make strategic adjustments, providing opportunities for other squad members to make a mark against Osasuna.

According to various analysts, the fixture is expected to be closely contested, with Osasuna’s solid home form providing them a slight edge. Nonetheless, Villarreal’s offensive strength suggests they have the potential to earn at least a point from this engagement.