Sevilla host Villarreal in the late La Liga fixture on Tuesday, with ambitions to extend their recent unbeaten run and make a statement for the Top 6.
After a slow season start, Matias Almeyda’s influence finally began to show, as Sevilla achieved three games without defeat – a success that last happened in March. In many ways, Los Nervionenses have exceeded all expectations, as the pre-season predictions expected them to be fighting for survival again. For reference, Sevilla escaped relegation by one point last season, finishing 17th. But Almeyda’s side has much to prove, as they haven’t even won a home match yet.
After an exceptional campaign last season, Villarreal returned to the Champions League, where they conceded a 1-0 to Tottenham last week. The Yellow Submarine has played exceptional football at home, winning all three La Liga fixtures, but their away performances to date left much to be desired, as they haven’t found success yet. But their recent record against Sevilla should give them confidence.
How the bookies view it: Narrow away advantage
Despite Sevilla’s resurgence in recent weeks, bookmakers are not convinced they should be favourites in this match. You can currently back them at 2/1, while Villarreal are the betting favourites with 13/10. Meanwhile, the draw is available at 12/5.
Recent head-to-head: Villarreal got a double
Recent H2Hs did not go well for the Nervionenses, who have been a permanent resident of the bottom half of the table over the past couple of years. Confidence will be on the side of the Yellow Submarine, who won the last three encounters, including a 2-1 away win last season at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.
Players to watch: Solomon will make an impact this season
Marcelino has been making major rotations in every line-up and we expect to see more changes for the Sevilla match. His side has been dealing with multiple injuries early in the season, which should further influence some unexpected decisions. For one, we expect to see Manor Solomon in the starting line-up after the 26-year-old made his debut on Saturday, coming on in the 67th minute. He only needed two minutes to set up Georges Mikautadze for his goal, which was the turning point that led to the comeback win over Osasuna.
Probable line-ups
Sevilla: Vlachodimos, Marcao, Nianzou, Azpilicueta, Suazo, Mendy, Agoume, Juanlu, Vargas, Sanchez, Romero
Villarreal: Junior, Cardona, Veiga, Marin, Mourino, Comesana, Gueye, Buchanan, Solomon, Pepe, Mikautadze
Anything else catch the eye?
Our first focus point in this match will be the goals. Four of Sevilla’s five fixtures this season ended with both teams scoring goals and over 2.5. Then, the last seven H2Hs between the two teams ended with both teams scoring regardless of the venue.
The next focus point will be the bookings. Sevilla have improved defensively but they still make too many mistakes, which often lead to yellow cards. In total, Sevilla’s players have been booked 17 times in five rounds for an average of 3.4 cards per game. We expect a very aggressive battle with at least five cards at full time.
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