Real Valladolid Hosts Villarreal in Crucial LaLiga Match Amidst Injury Concerns and Defensive Struggles

Real Valladolid is set to host Villarreal in the 11th round of LaLiga on October 26, 2024, at the José Zorrilla stadium. This match comes at a critical time for both teams, each facing their own set of challenges. Valladolid recently broke a nine-game winless streak with a 3-2 victory over Alavés, moving them up to 18th place in the league with 8 points. However, their defense remains a significant concern, having allowed around 2.1 goals per game.

Valladolid’s key players, including Selim Amallah, Raúl Moro, and Mamadou Sylla, have been instrumental in their recent performance. The return of Anuar from injury also provided a boost, as he scored the winning goal against Alavés. However, the team is still dealing with injuries to César de la Hoz, André Marcos, and Cenk Özkacar.

Villarreal, on the other hand, is grappling with significant injury issues. Players like Alfonso Pedraza, Juan Foyth, Willie Kambwala, Gerard Moreno, Ayoze Pérez, Denis Suárez, and Logan Costa are currently sidelined. The availability of Raúl Albiol and Eric Bailly for the match is also uncertain. These injuries have hindered Marcelino‘s ability to implement his preferred style of play, despite Villarreal holding 4th place in the league with 18 points.

Historically, Valladolid has struggled against Villarreal, winning only once in their last seven meetings. Their last home win against Villarreal dates back to January 2014. The current odds favor Villarreal slightly, with a victory priced at 2.03 compared to Valladolid’s 3.65.

The match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams likely to score due to their defensive struggles. Villarreal has not kept a clean sheet in their last 12 matches, and Valladolid has conceded goals in five consecutive games. Additionally, the match is predicted to feature a high number of corner kicks, given Valladolid’s average of 10.4 corners per game and Villarreal’s fast-paced style of play.