Villarreal vs. Real Sociedad Tips and Odds – 20/04/2025

• Fixture: Villarreal vs Real Sociedad
• Date: Sunday, 20 April 2025
• Venue: Estadio de la Cerámica, Villarreal

Match Preview

Villarreal and Real Sociedad square off in a crucial La Liga clash at the Estadio de la Cerámica on Sunday, 20 April 2025. Both teams are eager to secure European football for next season, with Villarreal currently sitting 5th and Real Sociedad trailing in 9th. The hosts have been in better form lately, while the visitors are battling a mounting injury crisis that could heavily influence the outcome.

Villarreal come into this fixture on the back of a hard-fought 2-1 away win over Real Betis, a result that extended their unbeaten run to three matches in all competitions. Prior to that, they secured victories over Getafe and Rayo Vallecano, with only a narrow defeat to Real Madrid and Alaves in their last five. Their recent results have propelled them into a strong position for a European spot, and their attacking play—led by Thierno Barry and Álex Baena—has been a highlight. However, they are not without their own injury concerns, with N. Pépé and Ilias Akhomach among those sidelined.

Real Sociedad, on the other hand, have struggled for consistency. Their last five matches in all competitions include a 2-1 win over Real Valladolid and a thrilling 4-4 draw against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey, but also a heavy 4-1 defeat to Manchester United in the Europa League and a 1-0 loss to Sevilla. The Basque side’s biggest headache is their growing injury list, with key players such as Odriozola, Sheraldo Becker, Brais Méndez, Arsen Zakharyan, Nayef Aguerd, Igor Zubeldia, and winger Ander Barrenetxea all likely to miss out. This has left coach Imanol Alguacil with limited options, especially in attack and defense.

The head-to-head record between these two is finely balanced, but Villarreal have often edged tight encounters at home. Statistically, matches between these sides are frequently close, with the most common result being a 1-1 draw. However, Villarreal’s superior recent form and the home advantage could tip the scales in their favor this time. Real Sociedad’s depleted squad may struggle to match Villarreal’s intensity, especially in the latter stages of the game.

Key Players

• Villarreal:
  • Thierno Barry (Forward): In fine scoring form, Barry has been Villarreal’s main attacking threat in recent weeks.
  • Álex Baena (Midfielder): The creative hub, Baena is a key source of assists and goals from midfield.
  • Gerard Moreno (Forward): The experienced striker remains a constant danger, especially at home.
• Real Sociedad:
  • Mikel Oyarzabal (Forward): The captain and top scorer, Oyarzabal will shoulder much of the attacking responsibility.
  • Takefusa Kubo (Winger): With his pace and dribbling, Kubo is one of the few fit creative outlets for Sociedad.
  • Álex Remiro (Goalkeeper): With a weakened defense, Remiro’s shot-stopping will be crucial to keep Sociedad in the game.

Prediction

Given Villarreal’s strong home form, recent momentum, and Real Sociedad’s injury crisis, the hosts look well-placed to take all three points. While Sociedad have the quality to trouble Villarreal—especially through Oyarzabal and Kubo—their lack of depth and missing key players may prove decisive. Expect Villarreal to control possession and create more chances, with Sociedad relying on counter-attacks and moments of individual brilliance. A narrow home win, possibly 2-1, seems the most likely outcome.

Betting Markets & Odds

Odds are indicative and may vary. Always check the latest odds before placing a bet.

Expect a lively contest, but Villarreal’s firepower and Real Sociedad’s injury woes make the home side clear favorites for this La Liga showdown.