After four defeats in a row, Villareal is on position 19 on the league table with only 2 points from the first two games against Mallorca and Osasuna (both ended 1:1). They lost in league against Bilbao (2:3), Real Madrid (0:2) and Deportivo (0:1) and finally in League Europe 3 days ago against Red Bull Salzburg (0:2). No one can remember such a poor start of the season, specially now when they have quality squad and high expectations. As we can see, beside those loses, they didn’t achieve to score in the last 3 matches and although they create chances, poor finishing is great problem. Maybe this is just bad luck but there is space for doubt and tomorrow they will probably try to proof themselves. Villareal has positive record against Espanyol with four wins and one draw in the last five matches and without conceding in the last 4. I believe that Joseba Lorente will finally get on the score sheet. Pressure is on high level and Villareal players will probably give their maximum because this is the best chance to start with winning.
This will be difficult season for Espanyol
Espanyol started season with 2 loses against Bilbao (0:1) and Real Madrid (0:3), but then showed some improvements with 2 wins against Deportivo (3:2) and Malaga (2:1). On the last match, against the worst team in the league Xerez, they failed to score and Xerez took their first point of the season. Espanyol underestimated Xerez entering the game without the intensity to win and we can expect more motivated team tomorrow. So, as we can see, they have problems with offensive line and also defense is shaky from time to time. Because all those facts, visitors will be satisfied with one point tomorrow and probably they will play defensive with eventual chances from counterattacks. Left back Chica got injured in training while Tamudo and De la Pena remain sidelined.
It is time for home win
Espanyol usually lose at the “El Madrigal” where they scored five years ago. This is not good time for traveling to Castellon. “Yellow submarine” is ready to sink Catalans ship. Villareal has motivation, pressure, quality and supporters and that are more than enough for the first win of the season. Odd on home win is really great because bad Villareal results but situation on the field is totally different and quality will decide winner.
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Prediction:
Tip: 1
Odd: 1.80
Bookie: Stan James
Stake: 8 /10
Tipster: devil
