Villarreal CF - Espanyol Barcelona ai prediction 09.02.2026 Primera División

Preview for the Primera División Match: Villarreal CF vs Espanyol Barcelona

The upcoming clash between Villarreal CF and Espanyol Barcelona on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 21:00 in the iconic Estadio de la Cerámica promises to be an intriguing encounter. As we approach Matchday 23 of the Primera División, both teams find themselves in the upper echelons of the league table, albeit with contrasting form patterns. Villarreal CF, under the astute leadership of Marcelino, are currently holding the 4th position with 42 points, having secured 13 victories, 3 draws, and only 5 defeats. Their goal-scoring prowess is evident with 39 goals scored against 23 conceded, suggesting a strong offensive and defensive setup.

Espanyol Barcelona, coached by Manolo González, are not far behind in 6th place with 34 points. Their record, consisting of 10 wins, 4 draws, and 8 losses, reflects a team capable of competing at the top but struggling with consistency, particularly in goal scoring, with a tally of 26 goals scored against 27 conceded. The head-to-head history heavily favors Villarreal, who have emerged victorious in the last five encounters against Espanyol. This historical dominance, coupled with their superior league position, makes Villarreal CF the favorites for this tie. The last direct meeting saw Villarreal secure a convincing 2-0 away victory against Espanyol.

Despite the current form of both teams, with neither securing a win in their last five matches, Villarreal's home advantage could play a pivotal role in their quest for three points. Espanyol Barcelona will aim to break their winless streak and climb closer to the top four, making this fixture a crucial battle in the context of European qualification aspirations.

Our Betting Tip for Villarreal CF vs Espanyol Barcelona

Our betting prediction for this match leans towards a home win for Villarreal CF. Given their superior head-to-head record and current standing in the league, they are well-positioned to take advantage of their home ground and secure victory. The odds favoring Villarreal at 1.77 (Betika) further strengthen our prediction.

For our second tip, we predict that both teams will score. Although Villarreal have a robust defense, Espanyol's ability to find the back of the net, even in defeat, suggests that they could pose a threat.

Our tips

Double Chance

X2

Villarreal CF have drawn or lost 5 of their last 6 matches.

Espanyol Barcelona have won or drawn 1 of their last 4 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

Total Goals

Over 1.5

There have been over 1.5 goals scored in 6 of Villarreal CF's last 6 matches.

There have been over 1.5 goals scored in 4 of Espanyol Barcelona's last 4 matches.

Top odds at Betway

Total Goals

Over 2.5

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 4 of Villarreal CF's last 6 matches.

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 2 of Espanyol Barcelona's last 4 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

AI Prediction for Villarreal CF vs Espanyol Barcelona

Based on the data and recent form, the AI prediction suggests a 2-1 victory for Villarreal CF. The AI forecast considers Villarreal’s consistent home performance and Espanyol's goal-scoring capabilities, leaning towards a match where both teams find the net but the home side prevails.

Villarreal CF Performance Check

Under the guidance of Marcelino, Villarreal CF have established themselves as strong contenders in the league. With a commendable home record of 8 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses, they have turned Estadio de la Cerámica into a formidable fortress. Despite a recent dip in form with 4 defeats and a draw in their last five matches, their overall performance this season showcases their potential to finish strongly.

How is the Current Performance of Espanyol Barcelona?

Espanyol Barcelona, managed by Manolo González, have shown flashes of brilliance this season, evident in their 6th place standing. However, their inconsistency, highlighted by a similar run of 4 defeats and a draw in their last five outings, indicates areas needing improvement. Their away record, consisting of 4 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses, suggests they have the capability to challenge teams on the road.

Last Direct Match

In their last direct encounter, Villarreal CF secured a confident 2-0 away victory over Espanyol Barcelona. This result not only reflects Villarreal's tactical superiority but also underscores their psychological edge heading into this fixture.

Head-to-Head Last Direct Meetings

The last five meetings between these two sides have ended in favor of Villarreal CF, who have maintained a perfect record with 5 wins. This dominance is a crucial factor that could influence the outcome of the upcoming match.

Performance Last 5 Matches

Both teams enter this fixture with identical recent form, having failed to secure a win in their last five matches. Villarreal CF and Espanyol Barcelona have each recorded 1 draw and 4 defeats, indicating a need to rediscover their winning ways.

Performance

Villarreal CF

Last games

Villarreal CF performance of the last 6 home matches

Victories

33%

Over 2.5

50%

Espanyol Barcelona

Last games

Espanyol Barcelona performance of the last 4 away matches

Victories

50%

Over 2.5

50%

Last Match Results for Villarreal CF and Espanyol Barcelona

In their most recent matches, Villarreal CF managed a 2-2 away draw against CA Osasuna, showcasing resilience in their performance. Conversely, Espanyol Barcelona suffered a 1-2 home defeat to Deportivo Alavés, highlighting their struggles to maintain form.

Best Odds and Our Betting Tip for the Match

For those looking to place bets, Villarreal CF are favored at odds of 1.77 (Betika). For a draw, odds of 4.37 are available at Betwinner, while an away win for Espanyol is offered at 5.10 by Mozzart. Considering both teams' current form, the recommendation is to back a home win for Villarreal CF. Additionally, betting on both teams to score, with odds of 1.78 (Mozzart), is advised. Find the best betting sites in our bookmaker comparison to ensure the most favorable odds.

Conclusion on the Match

In conclusion, Villarreal CF's superior head-to-head record and solid home form make them the favorites against Espanyol Barcelona. While both sides have struggled recently, Villarreal’s potential to capitalize on their home advantage should see them through to victory. Espanyol will need to overcome their recent challenges and deliver a standout performance to upset the odds.

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