Alaves have stumbled their way to three consecutive defeats in recent weeks, with a congested fixture list causing them to struggle, while Villarreal have stayed on course for a European finish.

Match Preview

The hosts haven’t scored in their last three league fixtures, after firing blanks in losses to Espanyol, Osasuna and Real Madrid. Rotation has really hurt Mauricio Pellegrino’s side.

- Alaves 1-0 Real Sociedad

- Real Madrid 3-0 Alaves

- Alaves 0-1 Osasuna

- Espanyol 1-0 Alaves

Alaves are, however, tough to beat. Aside from the league leaders, their other recent losses have been just by a single goal, with their system lending itself to making life difficult for opponents.

Villarreal have won their last two league games, beating Athletic Bilbao and Real Betis comfortably, which has seen the Yellow Submarine continue to hold fifth place due to the teams around them continuing to slip up.

- Las Palmas 1-0 Villarreal

- Villarreal 2-3 Eibar

- Real Betis 0-1 Villarreal

- Villarreal 3-1 Athletic Bilbao

Alaves vs Villarreal Prediction and Betting Advice

Victor Ruiz and Roberto Soldado are two key players absent due to suspension for the away side, with Alvaro and Adrian Lopez set to deputise. Fran Escriba has a deep squad, and should be unaffected.

Alaves are a tough nut to crack, but Villarreal are looking in good shape of late. The visitors will fancy themselves to take at least a share of the points, but three would be their dream.

Our Tip

Tip: Villarreal to Win (Asian Handicap +0.5): Bet365 (1.43)