Europa League
Villarreal vs Valencia Preview
- Date: Apr. 11, 2019
- Time: 3:00 p.m. (est)
- Network: UniMas, B/R Live
- Location: Villarreal, Spain
- Venue: Estadio de la Cerámica
- Seating Capacity: 24,890
Villarreal welcomes Valencia to the Estadio de Cerámica for the first leg of their quarterfinal clash in Europa League.
However, the hosts are struggling of late in La Liga and find themselves in relegation zone.
Meanwhile, Valencia are in sixth place and fighting to ensuring a European slot. However, Los Che had an rough start to their 100th anniversary season.
Nonetheless, Valencia remains in contention as they are set in the Copa del Rey finals.
Team News
Villarreal manager Javier Calleja will have unavailable Bruno Soriano, Manu Trigueros, Miguelon Llambrich, Javi Fuego, Jaume Costa and Daniele Bonera due to injuries. Additionally, Santi Cazorla looks to be in heavenly form which will benefit his side.
On the other hand, Marcelino will not have Ruben Sobrino, Jaume Domenech and Geoffrey Kondogbia due to injuries. Additionally, Carlos Soler is suspended for this match after accumulating several yellow cards.
Predicted Lineups
Villarreal XI: Andres Fernandez; Funes Mori, Alvaro Gonzalez, Victor Ruiz; Mario Gaspar, Cazorla, Manu Morlanes, Vicente Iborra, Pedraza; Bacca, Gerard Moreno.
Valencia XI: Neto; Piccini, Gabriel Paulista, Garay, Gaya; Wass, Coquelin, Parejo, Guedes; Rodrigo, Gameiro.
Prediction
With Villarreal focused in their relegation fight, the edge goes to Valencia. Additionally, the Yellow Submarine have struggled to combine Europa League commitments with La Liga. If they like to stay in first division, they will have to switch their focus to La Liga.
Nonetheless, this all-Spanish should be an entertaining affair. Additionally, both sides are hopeful for a good score. However, Valencia has an advantage as they are not pressing of winning as they still have Copa del Rey and an almost secure European slot.
Prediction: Villarreal 2 – 2 Valencia
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Photo credit to Villarreal via Twitter
