Villarreal v Valencia Betting Tips [11 April 2019]

It will be an all-Spanish quarterfinal in the Europa League, as a struggling Villarreal will take on Valencia at the El Madrigal in the first leg. The hosts have dropped into the La Liga relegation zone after falling to a 2-1 loss at Real Betis. Since the start of December 2018, Villarreal have won just three matches in all competitions (W3, D7, L8). The once impregnable El Madrigal also did not witness the usual domination at home. Though they have lost only once in their last six home matches in all competitions (W2, D3, L1), Villarreal have won just twice in their last nine competitive matches (W2, D4, L3). However, their La Liga struggles haven’t overshadowed their performance in the Europa League, where Villarreal are unbeaten in ten games (W5, D5) that includes three wins in five home games (W3, D2). Valencia have also endured a 2-0 loss to the relegation-threatened Rayo Vallecano, but the visitors remain in contention for a top-six finish. That loss was Valencia’s first in its last 18 competitive matches (W10, D7, L1). Los Che, however, haven’t been impressive in away games, losing six of their last 15 games (W4, D5, L6). Valencia have dropped into the Europa League after finishing third in their Champions League group phase.

Villarreal have had a season of contrasting fortunes. While their La Liga form has been very poor, Europa League form has been impressive. They would hope to continue that when they come up against fellow La Liga side Valencia, who have been frugal all through the season. This could be another tight encounter that might not see many goals.