Valencia 1-2 Villarreal: result and AI prediction

AI match recap

This is a derby between two sides searching for consistency, but the pressure is sharper on Valencia after their difficult start. Mestalla and Villarreal's European fatigue give the hosts a clear route into the match: high pressing, fierce duels and sustained territory. Villarreal still carry the stronger attacking threat, although rotation and absences could disrupt their usual rhythm. The contest should tighten if Valencia make their early intensity count; if not, Villarreal's quality in transition can take over.

Head-to-head analysis

Villarreal are unbeaten across the most recent five league meetings and have won each of the last two. Valencia have found this derby difficult even at Mestalla, where recent encounters have generally been tight.

Injuries and absences

Valencia are without Copete, Foulquier and Sadiq, weakening both their defensive cover and their options for changing the attacking reference point. Villarreal lose Carlos Romero and are managing Saliba's fitness, while Pépé is not yet ready to return.

Form (last 5)

Valencia vs Villarreal stats

Last meetings

• 2026-02-22Villarreal 2-1 Valencia
• 2025-10-25Valencia 0-2 Villarreal
• 2025-02-15Villarreal 1-1 Valencia
• 2024-08-31Valencia 1-1 Villarreal
• 2024-03-17Villarreal 1-0 Valencia
• 2024-01-02Valencia 3-1 Villarreal

Unavailable players

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