Spanish La Liga
2025-03-15 - Villarreal vs Real Madrid
A Sports Betting Pick by Gladiator
Football: Spanish La Liga - Round 28
Estadio de la Ceramica (Villarreal), Spain
Saturday, 15th March 2025 - Kick Off 18:30 CET
Villarreal
Villarreal’s six-match unbeaten run came to a frustrating halt last weekend as they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Alavés, despite playing against nine men by the final whistle. Marcelino’s side will feel hard done by after registering 24 shots and accumulating 2.64 expected goals (xG) but failing to find the net. The loss left them trailing the top four by five points, though they do have a game in hand.
The Yellow Submarine now face a major test as defending champions Real Madrid come to town. Encouragingly, Villarreal have made Estadio de la Ceramica a tricky venue for Los Blancos, avoiding defeat in their last seven home La Liga meetings against them. However, their inconsistency in front of goal this season raises concerns, as they have struggled to capitalise on dominance in key moments.
Real Madrid
After a physically and emotionally draining UEFA Champions League clash in midweek, Real Madrid must quickly shift focus back to their La Liga title race. Los Blancos progressed to the next round dramatically against Atletico Madrid, winning on penalties after a controversial call denied their rivals a spot-kick.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men remain level on points with Barcelona, but they have played a game more. However, their away form has been a concern, as they failed to win any of their last three league outings on the road. If they fail to secure three points here, it will mark their longest winless away streak in La Liga since 2019. Given their recent struggles in Villarreal, Madrid will need to dig deep to take control of the match and avoid another slip-up.
The Betting Verdict
Despite their attacking quality, both teams have struggled in front of goal in crucial matches. Villarreal’s inefficiency in their last outing, combined with Real Madrid’s fatigue from a grueling midweek fixture, suggests a low-scoring contest. The hosts' solid defensive record at home against Los Blancos further reinforces the likelihood of a match where goals are hard to come by.
The Statistics :
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The Pick :
Villarreal 0-1 Real Madrid
