The December break for the Spanish league is close and teams would be happy to take a break from proceeding in order to assess their positions in the league so far. However, after the break, they would have to figure out how to get through their first matches of the New Year. For Villarreal, one of those matches happens to be against the defending European champions Real Madrid.
Real Madrid has had a season that would forever stay in their heads due to its volatile nature. RM have failed to recover well from the loss of two important figures in their teams which were Ronaldo and Zidane. This combined with the fact that they did not bring in any replacement fuels the uncertainty which is currently around the club. Real Madrid this season have lost 3-0 or more to teams which are much lesser than them. The last loss coming in their last match against CSKA Moscow. Their new coach Solari would be hoping that he can steer them in the right direction come to the end of the season. These are the factors which Villarreal would be hoping works to their favor when they meet.
When it comes to the form of both teams, there is no doubt that Real Madrid has a better statistic when it comes to recent form. Out of the last six matches which have been played, they have won five of them. However, a loss to Eibar before those five and a loss to CSKA Moscow last week ensures that their run is tainted with losses which could easily be avoided by this team. Villarreal, on the other hand, has suffered two losses and a draw in their last six matches. The rest have ended in wins for the Spanish side. They would, however, take comfort from the fact that they have been able to win two of their last three games. This combined with the fact that the match would be played in their stadium would definitely give them confidence going forward.
Line-Ups
When it comes to their lineups, there is no doubt that Real Madrid would field a full squad on the day. They just cannot afford to drop any more points in their chase for La Liga as the gap between them and their arch-rivals Barcelona is already a lot. You can expect the likes of Benzema and Bale to start with Arsenio completing the trio. You can also expect the likes of Modric and Kroos to take complete control of the midfield for the Spanish team. In effect, Villarreal would have to find a way to cope with the full strength of Real Madrid. They would be hoping that their own players would be able to make them proud when they meet. A lot of teams have found joy attacking this team and that would definitely be their aim when this match takes place.
Real Madrid would be looking at this game as a way to increase the pressure on Barcelona and would hope to take full advantage.
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