Osasuna vs Villarreal: prediction, head-to-head and probable line-ups – 31 January 2026
One of the matches of La Liga’s 22nd round will take place on Saturday at the El Sadar stadium in Pamplona, where Osasuna will host Villarreal. Here’s my pick for this clash, taking into account the current form of both teams.
Match preview
Osasuna are having a solid season, sitting 9th in the table. Alessio Lisci’s men have shown impressive confidence at their home ground, El Sadar: in their last 10 home games, they’ve picked up 6 wins and suffered only two defeats. In the previous round, the Pamplona side confidently dispatched Rayo Vallecano (3-1), further highlighting the good form of their attacking line, led by Ante Budimir.
However, defensive issues have hampered their ability to climb higher in the standings. The Rojillos concede more than one goal per game on average, and have managed to keep a clean sheet only once in their last six outings. The hosts will likely focus on aggressive pressing and quick transitions from defense to attack—an approach that often brings them success against top clubs, especially with the crowd behind them.
Villarreal, under Marcelino, continue to fight for a Champions League spot and currently sit 4th. The Yellow Submarine play some of the most prolific football in the league, averaging nearly two goals per game. Alberto Moleiro and Gerard Moreno are in excellent form, providing both creativity and end product up front. However, recent rounds have been tough, with disappointing 0-2 defeats to both Betis and Real Madrid, forcing them to go all out for a win in Pamplona.
Villarreal’s away record this season is solid: 5 wins from 9 matches. Marcelino’s side are comfortable controlling possession and dictating the tempo, but their high defensive line is often exposed by counter-attacks—especially in the absence of the injured Juan Foyth. This match will be a real test of Villarreal’s resilience after a string of tough European fixtures, where they’ve struggled in the Champions League.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Osasuna have conceded in five consecutive matches.
- Villarreal are on a four-game losing streak.
- Both teams have scored in 4 of the last 5 head-to-head meetings between Osasuna and Villarreal.
- Villarreal are unbeaten in their last three trips to Pamplona (1 win and 2 draws).
- The reverse fixture this season ended with a 2-1 victory for Villarreal.
Probable line-ups
- Osasuna: Herrera - Rosier, Boyomo, Catena, Galán - Torró, Moncayola, Oroz - García, Moñoz, Budimir
- Villarreal: Júnior - Navarro, Marín, Veiga, Pedraza - Buchanan, Comesaña, Gueye, Moleiro - Moreno, Mikautadze
Prediction
I expect a high-scoring game. Both teams are highly motivated: the hosts are pushing for a European spot, while the visitors are defending their place in the top four. The head-to-head stats and Villarreal’s attacking potential, combined with Osasuna’s powerful home form, point to a strong likelihood of goals at both ends. My prediction: Both teams to score – yes.
