Real Madrd are finally starting to get back on track in the league, winning their last two matches after a two-match losing streak that briefly put Rafa Benitez’s managerial job at risk. They’re also coming off the back of an 8-0 pasting of Malmo in the Champions League, so it’s safe to say that their confidence is high heading into their trip to Villarreal.
Real Madrid vs. Villarreal 2015 live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch La Liga online
Villarreal welcome in Real Madrid with a big opportunity at hand.
Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images
Villarreal, however, are hoping to turn their own improving form into a chance to close the gap on the top three again -- a win in this match isn’t just a huge upset against one of the best teams in the league, it would also pull them to within three points of Real Madrid, and within one of fourth-place Celta Vigo. For a team with Villarreal’s aspirations, getting a win in a match like this can be a huge and important shift in momentum.
Key player -- James Rodriguez (Real Madrid)
With Villarreal concentrating on slowing down the Bale-Benzema-Ronaldo front line Real Madrid will be throwing at them, James has a chance to sweep up behind the space they leave and wreak massive amounts of havoc. His playmaking skill will be valuable in helping to unlock Villarreal’s defense, and of course he has plenty of ability to score for himself. While other Madrid players may take the acclaim, you can just about guarantee that James will be vital to the result if the Merengues win.
Key matchup -- Luka Modric (Real Madrid) vs. Jonathan dos Santos (Villarreal)
Dos Santos has been the standout man in midfield for Villarreal this season, and the former Barcelona man will be eager to continue that strong form against Madrid. He’ll have to get the better of Modric to do it, though, and the two midfielders going head to head should be quite entertaining. Both players get forward very very well, and are underrated heading back in defense as well. This will be a very tactical battle, and those are always fun to watch play out.
Villarreal injuries and suspensions
Out: Mario Gaspar, Daniele Bonera, Leo Baptistao, Adrian In doubt: Bojan Jokic, Jaume Costa
Real Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: Dani Carvajal, Raphael Varane
Match Date/Time: Sunday, 2:30 p.m. ET, 8:30 p.m. local
Venue: Camp El Madrigal, Villarreal, Spain
TV: beIN Sports (U.S. & Canada - English), beIN Sports en Español (U.S. & Canada - Spanish), Movistar TV Futbol, Canal+ Partidazo (Spain), Sky Sports 1/HD (U.K.)
Online: Fubo TV, beIN Sports Connect (U.S. & Canada), Sky Go (U.K.)
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