Espanyol 0-2 Villarreal: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Bwin’s post-match review of Espanyol 0-2 Villarreal in the La Liga on Saturday, 08 November 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Espanyol’s home defeat to Villarreal, marking their second consecutive loss, was a result that might surprise given their recent form of two wins prior. The match saw Villarreal extend their winning streak to three games, showcasing their current dominance in La Liga. Key moments included goals from Gerard Moreno and Alberto Moleiro, which decisively shifted the game’s momentum in Villarreal’s favour. Espanyol’s inability to convert possession into goals was evident, highlighting a tactical or execution shortfall against a well-drilled Villarreal side.

Despite Espanyol’s higher possession, Villarreal’s efficiency in front of goal was the defining factor. The visitors’ disciplined approach and clinical finishing underlined their superior form. Espanyol’s substitutions in the second half aimed to change the game’s course but failed to disrupt Villarreal’s control. This result underscores Villarreal’s ability to capitalise on opportunities, a trait that has been consistent in their recent victories.

Espanyol held a slight edge in possession with 55% compared to Villarreal’s 45%, yet this did not translate into scoring opportunities. Villarreal’s higher success rate in dribbles (61% vs Espanyol’s 41%) indicates their greater effectiveness in breaking down the opposition’s defence. The visitors also managed to secure two corners fewer than Espanyol but were more clinical in their approach. Villarreal’s two yellow cards suggest a more aggressive or perhaps desperate approach to maintain their lead, while Espanyol’s clean disciplinary record reflects a more controlled, albeit less effective, performance.

The match’s pivotal moments were Villarreal’s goals, scored by Gerard Moreno in the 43rd minute and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th. Moreno’s goal, assisted by Santi Comesaña, came just before halftime, shifting the game’s dynamics. Moleiro’s strike further solidified Villarreal’s lead, making it a challenging task for Espanyol to mount a comeback. Espanyol’s multiple substitutions in the second half, including the introduction of P. Lozano and Exposito, were attempts to inject new energy and change the game’s flow, but these efforts were in vain.

Espanyol deployed a 4-4-1-1 formation with Manuel Iori in goal and a backline of El Hilali, Calero, Cabrera, and Salinas. The midfield was anchored by González de Zárate and Lozano, with Dolan and Milla providing support to the lone striker, Roberto Fernández. Despite controlling the ball for the majority of the match, Espanyol’s lineup failed to create meaningful chances, suggesting a disconnect between possession and penetration.

Villarreal lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, with Luiz Júnior between the posts and a defence of Navarro, Marín, Veiga, and Pedraza. The midfield quartet of Buchanan, Comesaña, Partey, and Moleiro provided a solid base, while Moreno and Oluwaseyi led the attack. This setup allowed Villarreal to maintain a compact shape and exploit counter-attacking opportunities effectively, as evidenced by their two goals.

Gerard Moreno was named Man of the Match for his crucial contribution to Villarreal’s victory. Scoring the opening goal in the 43rd minute, Moreno’s clinical finish set the tone for the rest of the match. His ability to capitalise on the assist from Comesaña and his overall influence on the game’s outcome justified his selection as the standout performer.

Recent La Liga matches:

• Loss: 0-2 vs Villarreal (H)
• Loss: 1-2 vs Deportivo Alavés (A)
• Win: 1-0 vs Elche (H)
• Win: 2-0 vs Real Oviedo (A)

Recent La Liga matches:

• Win: 2-0 vs Espanyol (A)
• Win: 4-0 vs Rayo Vallecano (H)
• Win: 2-0 vs Valencia (A)

Currently 6th in the league with 18 points, Espanyol will face Sevilla, who are 9th with 16 points, on November 24, 2025 at 20:00.

Sitting 3rd in the league with 26 points, Villarreal’s next match is against Mallorca, who are 15th with 12 points, on November 22, 2025 at 20:00.

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