With a mix of results which has seen the side dip for mid-table, Villarreal is set on a comeback as they host side Levante at the Estadio de la Ceramica. The match schedules for 15th February with kickoff starting at 20:30 GMT.
A draw to side Real Sociedad saw Calleja’s side fail to beat the mid-table ranking as they scooped up to 8th with 35 points. With the mid-table teams facing stiff competition, Calleja will be facing a spirited side that comes off 2-0 win over Leganes.
Before the win, side Levante had recorded four straight defeats in the league. This had nearly put their stay at the mid-table at stake. The side is currently 11th on the table with 29 points. Paco Lopez has faced heavy criticisms, especially after lackluster performances shown by the side.
It remains a doubt whether Villarreal can pick up their form and earn a Championship League slot. Levante will contend with the mid-table ranking, especially securing another stay in La Liga. However, consistency has to be a key feature for Paco Lopez.
Villarreal vs. Levante Head to Head
Both sides have met 21 times in La Liga with Villarreal taking home 13 wins while Levante contends with six wins. Here is a look at their past encounters:
Levante 2-1 Villarreal
Levante 0-2 Villarreal
Villarreal 1-1 Levante
Villarreal 2-1 Levante
Levante 1-0 Villarreal
Villarreal 3-0 Levante
Levante 1-0 Villarreal
Villarreal 1-0 Levante
Villarreal Team News
The week started with rumors of a bid from Liverpool for Nigerian wonderkid Chikwueze. However, the rumors have no confirmation with the winger focused on making a mark in La Liga. Young star Fer Nino who has been explosive from Team C to the first team recently tied down to contact. The teenager was instrumental with a late winner in the Copa del Rey.
The future of midfielder Santi Cazorla is still in doubt despite the current in-form for the Spaniard with eight goals for the side despite the age. Left-back Albert Moreno recently made a comeback from injury and featured in the 1-2 win over side Alaves.
Levante Team News
Paco Lopez will contend with injury scares in his camp. Right-winger Hernani, who recently picked up a knee injury, is a doubt to feature in the clash. The same goes for central midfielder Gonzalo Molero who has a muscle injury. On the sidelines will be midfielder Nemanja Radoja with a muscle injury.
Prediction and Odds
Both sides have put forward a mix of impressive and lackluster performances. However, Villarreal has the upper hand with a squad depth to secure a win.
Villarreal Win
Double Chance
Correct Score 2-0
Goals Under 2.5
