Villarreal vs. Barcelona: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online

Barcelona hit the road for the first time this season with a tricky test against Villarreal at El Madrigal. The Yellow Submarine won their opener against Levante and will now attempt to defeat the Blaugrana for the first time since return to the top flight after two close losses last season.

The addition of midfielder Ivan Rakitić over the summer might be one of Barca's best signings in years. After three seasons off the mainstream's radar playing at Sevilla, Rakitić has been given a chance to show off his tremendous skills on one of the biggest stages in football. He was excellent against Elche, the midfield player that Barca was lacking all of last season, and he should only get better with Neymar set to return to the lineup this week. Villarreal will be smart to remember that while you have to watch Lionel Messi, shutting down Rakitić could prove more beneficial.

Key matchup: Barca's always suspect defense vs. Villarreal's attack

Chances are that Barcelona will be able to score a goal or two on Sunday, but the real question is whether or not the Yellow Submarine can score as many, or more. How well the Blaugrana defenders are able to deal with Giovani dos Santos and Uche will go a long way towards determining the outcome of the match. With Javier Mascherano out, Luis Enrique could recall Gerard Piqué or Marc Bartra but it really doesn't matter. Barca's defense has to prove they can do the job, something they've struggled to do ever since Carles Puyol stopped being a regular starter for the club.

Out: Andres Iniesta (knee), Javier Mascherano (suspended), Thomas Vermaelen (hamstring), Luis Suárez (suspended).