Villarreal vs Mallorca Predictions

Villarreal vs Mallorca predictions for this La Liga clash. Villarreal aims to halt three-match losing streak in upcoming home La Liga fixture against Mallorca on Saturday. Will they do so or will their negative period continue? Read on for our free betting tips and predictions.

La Liga | Gameweek 21 – Jan 20, 2024 at 3.15pm UK at Estadio de la Ceramica

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Villarreal vs Mallorca Predictions

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Clash of Necessities: Villarreal’s Bid for Revival Against Steadfast Mallorca

In a pivotal La Liga fixture, Villarreal, currently 15th in the table, host Mallorca, who share the same points but sit a spot higher. This encounter at Estadio de la Cerámica could have significant implications for both teams.

Team Analysis

Villarreal: Desperate for Form Reversal

Villarreal’s struggle this season contrasts sharply with their previous campaigns. Marcelino, in his third managerial stint this term, faces a challenging task. The team’s defensive frailties and inconsistent attacking output are major concerns. Gerard Moreno’s return to form could be key, and Marcelino might need to rethink his strategies to utilise his squad’s potential fully.

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Mallorca: Sturdy but Draw-Prone

Mallorca, under Javier Aguirre, have shown resilience, drawing ten matches this season. Their defensive solidity has been commendable, but their lack of offensive firepower, especially in away games, hinders their progress up the table. Aguirre’s challenge is to find a balance that converts draws into wins.

Tactical Breakdown and Key Match-ups

• Midfield Battle: Villarreal’s midfield, orchestrated by Parejo, needs to control the game’s rhythm against Mallorca’s compact and disciplined midfield line.
• Defensive Organisation: Both teams have shown vulnerabilities at the back. Villarreal’s shaky defence against Mallorca’s limited but effective forward line could be decisive.
• Set-Piece Threat: Villarreal could leverage Parejo’s set-piece prowess to unlock Mallorca’s defence.

Managerial Perspectives

• Marcelino: His ability to motivate and tactically adjust will be crucial. Villarreal’s need for a win could see a more aggressive approach.
• Javier Aguirre: Known for his pragmatic style, Aguirre’s Mallorca will likely focus on a solid defensive performance, looking to exploit Villarreal’s inconsistencies.

Key Areas for Improvement

• Villarreal: Needs to tighten their defence and find consistency in their attacking play. Integrating Moreno effectively into the attack is vital.
• Mallorca: Must find ways to be more creative and incisive in attack, especially in away fixtures.

Expected Lineups and Gameplay Commentary

• Villarreal (4-4-2): Jorgensen; Alti, Bailly, Cuenca, Pedraza; Akhomach, Coquelin, Parejo, Baena; G Moreno, Sorloth.
  • Commentary: Marcelino might deploy a 4-4-2 formation, focusing on midfield control and using Moreno and Sorloth’s attacking prowess.
• Mallorca (4-2-3-1): Rajkovic; Darder, Nastasic, Raillo, Copete, Lato; A Sanchez, Morlanes, Costa, D Rodriguez; Larin.
  • Commentary: Aguirre is likely to opt for a 4-2-3-1 setup, focusing on a compact midfield and defence, relying on counter-attacks and set-pieces.

Predictions

1. Match Outcome: Villarreal to Win Despite their struggles, Villarreal have the home advantage and a slight edge in quality, especially in attack. The desperation to move away from the relegation zone might fuel a much-needed win.
2. Correct Score Prediction: Villarreal 2-1 Mallorca Expecting a closely contested match, Villarreal might edge it with their attacking flair, while Mallorca’s resilience could see them find the net too.
3. Goalscorer Prediction: Gerard Moreno to Score Villarreal’s main attacking threat, Moreno’s return to form could be pivotal. His knack for finding space in the box makes him a likely candidate to score.
4. Corner Prediction: Total Over 9.5 Corners Given both teams’ propensity to push wide and deliver crosses, a high number of corners is likely, as both teams will look to exploit set-piece situations.

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