At the Estadio de la Cerámica on 10 January 2026, Villarreal host Alavés in a La Liga fixture that brings together one of the division’s most reliable home sides and a visitor still struggling to find rhythm away from Vitoria. The hosts return in confident mood after an immediate response to their first setback in weeks, while Alavés arrive with modest expectations and a record on the road that continues to undermine their mid-table position.
Villarreal’s impressive six-game winning run in the league was halted by Barcelona, but any concerns of a downturn were quickly eased with a composed 3-1 victory away at Elche in the last round. That result reinforced the sense of stability surrounding Marcelino’s side, who remain the best defensive unit in La Liga at this stage of the season and have turned their home ground into a consistent source of points.
Prediction Overview: Villarreal to Win
With Villarreal’s defensive strength and home consistency contrasting sharply with Alavés’ away struggles, a straightforward home win stands out as the most logical angle. The Yellow Submarine rarely drop points in this setting, and against an opponent that offers limited attacking threat on the road, control and efficiency should be enough to secure all three points.
Villarreal’s Balance Built on Defensive Authority
Villarreal’s success this season has been anchored by organisation and discipline. Conceding fewer goals than any other side in the league has allowed them to manage matches with authority, particularly at home where they have won seven of nine games so far. Marcelino’s team are comfortable dictating tempo, striking a balance between patient build-up and decisive moments in the final third. Even when not at their most fluid, their structure ensures they remain difficult to disrupt.
Alavés Struggling to Travel with Purpose
Alavés sit 13th in the table, a position that reflects a largely unspectacular campaign. Recent form has dipped further, with just one win from their last seven league outings. Away from home, their limitations are more pronounced. Six defeats from eight road matches tell a clear story, compounded by a return of only three goals scored across those games. The recent 3-0 loss at Osasuna highlighted their difficulties in competing once momentum turns against them.
