Villarreal vs Real Betis: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview
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Explore Bwin's detailed preview for Villarreal vs Real Betis in the La Liga. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 17:30 BST match.
Match Details
Fixture: Villarreal vs Real Betis
Date: Saturday, 18 October 2025
Kick-off: 17:30 BST
Venue: Estadio de la Cerámica
Our predictions for Villarreal vs Real Betis
Match Prediction: Villarreal 2-1 Real Betis
Villarreal's recent form suggests a team capable of bouncing back from losses with strong performances at home. Their victories against Sevilla and Osasuna indicate a solid defensive structure and an ability to capitalise on counter-attacks, which could be key against Betis.
Real Betis, on the other hand, have shown consistency in their recent wins, particularly at home, but their away form has been less convincing. This match could see Villarreal exploit Betis's potential vulnerabilities on the road, focusing on quick transitions and set-piece opportunities.
The tactical battle will likely revolve around Villarreal's midfield control and Betis's attacking flair. Villarreal's recent losses to top teams like Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid highlight areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining possession under pressure.
Betis's recent draw and loss suggest they can be vulnerable defensively, which might encourage Villarreal to press high and disrupt Betis's rhythm. Expect a closely contested match with Villarreal's home advantage playing a crucial role.
Form Guide & Team Overview
Villarreal
Villarreal's recent form shows a team that can recover well from setbacks, with three wins in their last five matches. Their victories against Sevilla and Osasuna at home demonstrate their strength in front of their own fans, which could be pivotal against Betis.
However, their losses to Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid away from home indicate areas where they need to improve, particularly in maintaining defensive solidity against strong opposition.
The absence of Pau Cabanes due to a cruciate ligament tear might affect their attack, but the predicted lineup suggests a balanced approach with a focus on both defence and attack. If Villarreal can replicate their home form and capitalise on Betis's recent defensive lapses, they stand a good chance of securing another victory.
Recent La Liga Results:
Loss: 1-3 vs Real Madrid (A)
Win: 1-0 vs Athletic Club (H)
Win: 2-1 vs Sevilla (A)
Win: 2-1 vs Osasuna (H)
Loss: 0-2 vs Atlético Madrid (A)
Real Betis
Real Betis have shown strong form in their recent matches, with three wins and a draw in their last five games. Their victories against Espanyol, Osasuna, and Real Sociedad at home highlight their attacking prowess and ability to dominate possession.
However, their draw against Levante and loss to Athletic Club suggest that their away form needs improvement, which could be a concern against Villarreal. The absence of Isco due to a broken fibula might impact their creativity in midfield.
The predicted lineup indicates a focus on maintaining a solid defensive structure while still posing a threat going forward. If Betis can tighten up their defence and exploit any gaps in Villarreal's midfield, they could challenge for a positive result.
Recent La Liga Results:
Win: 2-1 vs Espanyol (A)
Win: 2-0 vs Osasuna (H)
Win: 3-1 vs Real Sociedad (H)
Draw: 2-2 vs Levante (A)
Loss: 1-2 vs Athletic Club (H)
Head-to-Head Record
The head-to-head record between Villarreal and Real Betis shows a closely contested rivalry, with both teams winning two games each in the last five encounters, and one ending in a draw. The most recent match, on 13 April 2025, saw Villarreal secure a 2-1 victory away at Betis, following Betis' 2-1 home win on 15 December 2024.
This suggests that both teams are capable of winning on each other's turf, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this upcoming match.
Recent La Liga Results
Real Betis 1-2 Villarreal (13 Apr 2025)
Villarreal 1-2 Real Betis (15 Dec 2024)
Real Betis 2-3 Villarreal (10 Mar 2024)
Villarreal 1-2 Real Betis (13 Aug 2023)
Villarreal 1-1 Real Betis (12 Mar 2023)
Team News & Injury Report
Villarreal
Pau Cabanes (Knee) - Out
Logan Costa (Knee) - Out
Santiago Mouriño (Suspended) - Out
Juan Foyth (Muscle) - Doubt
Ayoze Pérez (Groin) - Doubt
Gerard Moreno (Hamstring) - Doubt
Willy Kambwala (Hamstring) - Doubt
Real Betis
Isco (Fibula) - Out
Sofyan Amrabat (Thigh) - Doubt
Diego Llorente (Muscle) - Doubt
Nelson Deossa (Ankle) - Doubt
Lineups & Tactical Setup
Villarreal (4-4-2)
Predicted lineup: Tenas, Navarro, Veiga, Marín, Cardona, Buchanan, Comesaña, Partey, Gueye, Oluwaseyi, Moleiro
Villarreal's predicted lineup suggests a focus on midfield control with Partey anchoring the centre, allowing for quick transitions led by Buchanan and Cardona. Their recent form indicates a reliance on solid defending and exploiting counter-attacks, which could be key against Betis.
Real Betis (4-2-3-1)
Predicted lineup: López, Bellerín, Natan, Gómez, Rodríguez, Fornals, Roca, Antony, Lo Celso, Ezzalzouli, Hernández
Real Betis's predicted lineup emphasises a balanced approach with Fornals and Roca in midfield, supporting the attacking quartet of Antony, Hernández, Lo Celso, and Ezzalzouli. Their recent performances suggest a need to improve defensively, particularly away from home, to counter Villarreal's home advantage.
Key Battles & Players to Watch
Oluwaseyi vs Natan: This duel will see Villarreal's forward Oluwaseyi testing Betis's defender Natan with his pace and movement.
Partey vs Roca: Villarreal's midfielder Partey will look to control the midfield against Betis's Roca, who will aim to disrupt and transition play.
Buchanan (Villarreal): Buchanan's versatility and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively make him a crucial player for Villarreal's strategy.
Hernández (Real Betis): Hernández's goal-scoring threat and ability to create chances will be vital for Betis's attacking efforts.