Villarreal vs. Leganes Tips and Odds – 14/05/2025

• Fixture: Villarreal vs Leganés
• Date: Wednesday, 14 May 2025
• Venue: Estadio de la Cerámica, Villarreal

Match Preview

Villarreal are set to host Leganés at Estadio de la Cerámica for a vital La Liga encounter as the 2024/25 season nears its conclusion. The Yellow Submarine are pushing for a strong finish and possible Champions League qualification, while Leganés are locked in a tense battle to avoid relegation. Villarreal have been solid at home this campaign, and with the stakes high, they’ll be eager to capitalize on their home advantage against a Leganés side struggling for form.

Villarreal’s recent results show a team in decent shape: they picked up a gritty 1-0 win away at Girona, following up an impressive 4-2 home victory over Osasuna. Their only recent setback was a 3-0 defeat at Celta Vigo, but overall, their form at La Cerámica has been strong. Leganés, on the other hand, have found wins hard to come by. Their last five matches include a 2-2 draw at Sevilla, 1-1 draws with both Girona and Osasuna, and a narrow 1-0 home defeat to Barcelona. With no wins in their last six league games, Leganés are desperate for points but have struggled to turn draws into victories.

Injuries and suspensions are a major storyline for this match. Villarreal have had to cope without several important players: Diego Conde and Logan Costa remain sidelined through injury. Key midfielders Álex Baena and Dani Parejo, plus defender Kiko Femenia, are suspended, which could impact both their creativity and defensive structure. The return of Juan Foyth is a timely boost for their defense. Leganés are also short-handed, especially at the back. Valentin Rosier and Juan Cruz are fitness doubts, while Enric Franquesa and Borna Barišić are definitely out. Javi Hernández is suspended, leaving their defense stretched thin.

Tactically, Villarreal are expected to dominate possession and look to break down Leganés with patient build-up play and width. Leganés, facing a shortage of defenders, will likely sit deep and try to frustrate the hosts, relying on quick counter-attacks and set pieces to create chances. However, their lack of attacking firepower and defensive absences could make it a long evening for the visitors, especially against a Villarreal side that has shown attacking flair at home.

Key Players

Villarreal:

• Gerard Moreno: The Spanish striker is Villarreal’s talisman, leading the line with technical skill, movement, and an eye for goal.
• Álex Baena: Although suspended for this clash, Baena has been a creative spark in midfield and his absence will be felt.
• Juan Foyth: The Argentine’s return from injury strengthens Villarreal’s defense and adds experience at the back.

Leganés:

• Dani Raba: One of the few consistent attacking threats for Leganés, capable of producing moments of quality.
• Seydouba Cissé: Brings energy and drive to midfield, crucial for launching counter-attacks.
• Diego García: With Leganés missing several defenders, García’s leadership and organization at the back will be vital.

Prediction

Given Villarreal’s strong home record, superior squad depth, and Leganés’ injury and suspension crisis-particularly in defense-the hosts are clear favorites. Villarreal are expected to control the game and create the better chances, while Leganés may struggle to keep them out for 90 minutes. Most models and pundits predict a home win, likely by a margin of one or two goals.

Predicted score: Villarreal 2-0 Leganés

Betting Markets & Odds

Villarreal’s home advantage, attacking quality, and Leganés’ defensive absences make them the clear pick for this La Liga showdown.