Villarreal B vs Real Valladolid prediction 18.12.2023

• Competition: La Liga 2
• Date: Monday, 18th December 2023
• Kickoff: 19:30 UTC / 20:30 CET
• Venue: Estadio de la Ceramica (Villarreal)

Villarreal B re-entered La Liga 2 last season, finishing just above the relegation zone but six points clear of it, indicating they were not in real danger of being relegated. This season, they find themselves once again at the lower end of the league table, currently in 18th place, a mere point above the danger zone. However, their main focus seems to be on nurturing their players for the senior team, suggesting that their league position might not be of primary concern.

Throughout the 21st century, Real Valladolid has frequently oscillated between La Liga and La Liga 2. In the previous season, they suffered another relegation from La Liga, ending the season merely one point above the relegation cut-off. Had they only secured victory in their final home game against Getafe, they would have remained in the league. This season, despite an initial underwhelming performance, their form has improved significantly, and they are now contenders for promotion. Currently, they occupy the 2nd spot, just two points behind the league leaders, Leganes.

Villarreal B vs Real Valladolid pick: Real Valladolid to win

Villarreal B has been performing poorly for the past two months, suffering losses in six out of nine games, a loss rate of 67%. Their offensive play has been particularly disappointing, with just four goals scored during the nine-game period.

This season, Real Valladolid has secured victory in 11 out of 19 matches. Despite inconsistent results on away games, they’ve demonstrated ease when playing against lower-ranking teams in the league. Their performance suggests they have the potential to outplay the inexperienced Villarreal B team. Recently, Real Valladolid’s form has been impressive, with five victories in eight games. Their only losses were against Espanyol (in the Cup) and Levante, two of the league’s top teams.

In an unbiased view, Real Valladolid outperforms overall and taking into account Villarreal’s poor goalscoring form, we predict that Valladolid will secure all three points at Estadio de la Ceramica.