La Liga newcomer ready to challenge the bronze medalist: Racing Santander vs Villarreal prediction
The opening round of the Spanish championship between Racing and Villarreal will take place on August 16, 2026, at El Sardinero Stadium in Santander. The hosts are making their first La Liga appearance since the 2011/12 season after a brilliant promotion campaign in the Segunda, while the 'Yellow Submarine' kick off the new campaign as last season's bronze medalists.
Racing: a fearless approach even against the favorites
Last season, Racing emerged as the revelation of the Segunda, netting 90 goals in 42 matches - the best attacking record in the competition in the 21st century. José Alberto’s side finished first with a five-point cushion, though their attacking style came at a price - conceding 61 goals.
At home, Santander’s side are especially dangerous: nine wins in their last ten Segunda matches at El Sardinero, losing only once. It was here, in December 2025, that Racing already defeated Villarreal 2-1 in the Copa del Rey, and this summer the squad was bolstered by Sergio Canales and Julen Agirrezabala.
Villarreal: Pérez starts a rebuild without major upheaval
After finishing third last season, Villarreal replaced Marcelino with Iñigo Pérez. The new coach is focusing on a more aggressive pressing game and possession-based football, and preseason friendlies against PSV, Como, Levante, and Galatasaray have already showcased early changes in the team’s approach.
At the same time, the core of the bronze medalists has remained almost intact. Juan Foyth has recovered from injury, Carlos Romero is back from loan, and Ayoze Pérez is in great form, scoring four goals in the last four friendlies.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Racing have won nine of their last ten home games in the Segunda.
- In December 2025, Santander knocked Villarreal out of the Copa del Rey with a 2-1 win.
- Last season, Villarreal won five out of six matches against La Liga newcomers.
Aggressive pressing could be the key: Racing Santander vs Villarreal prediction
Racing don’t look like a typical newcomer who’ll spend the whole match sitting deep. The hosts love to build out from the back, attack in numbers, and are capable of putting up a real fight at home - even against the favorites.
But this very style could play into the hands of the revamped Villarreal, who under Pérez press high up the pitch and have already punished opponents for mistakes in possession. The visitors’ experience and squad quality should see them edge out a hard-fought three points.
