As the Spanish La Liga season finds its rhythm, Estadio de la Cerámica is set to witness an intriguing clash between Villarreal and Osasuna on September 20, 2025, at 16:30 UTC. This early-season encounter promises tactical battles and pivotal moments as both teams look to solidify their positions. Villarreal, often dubbed the ‘Yellow Submarine’, will aim to leverage their home advantage against an Osasuna side known for its resilience. What’s at stake for these two clubs as they lock horns on what is predicted to be a changeable weather day in Vila-real?
Head-to-Head History
The historical rivalry between Villarreal and Osasuna has seen 35 competitive matches since 2003. Villarreal holds the upper hand, having secured 16 victories, while Osasuna has claimed 12 wins, with 7 matches ending in a draw.
- Total Matches Played: 35
- Villarreal Wins: 16
- Osasuna Wins: 12
- Draws: 7
Recent encounters between these two sides have often been high-scoring affairs, averaging 3.13 goals per match. Notably, both teams have scored in 75% of their previous 24 meetings. Villarreal has also enjoyed a strong recent run against Osasuna in La Liga, being unbeaten in their last six matches, a streak that includes four wins and two draws. Furthermore, Villarreal has won their last three home matches against Osasuna in La Liga and will be looking to secure a fourth consecutive home victory against them for the first time in the competition’s history.
The last few meetings paint a varied picture, with Villarreal often finding the edge:
- 2025/05/03: Villarreal CF vs CA Osasuna (Villarreal victory, likely 4-2 as suggested in snippets)
- 2024/11/24: CA Osasuna vs Villarreal CF (Result not specified, but an Osasuna win is mentioned for their “Last 5” H2H form)
- 2024/05/25: CA Osasuna vs Villarreal CF (Result not specified, but an Osasuna win is mentioned for their “Last 5” H2H form)
- 2023/11/26: Villarreal CF vs CA Osasuna (Villarreal victory)
- 2023/03/19: CA Osasuna vs Villarreal CF (Osasuna victory)
Current Form & Team News
Entering this fixture, both teams have shown mixed results in the nascent 2025/2026 La Liga season, building on their performances from the close of the 2024/2025 campaign.
Villarreal
Villarreal finished the 2024/2025 La Liga season in a strong position, securing 5th place with 70 points from 38 matches (20 wins, 10 draws, 8 losses). They were particularly strong towards the end of the last season, going unbeaten in their final six league matches. However, early 2025/2026 season results suggest some fluctuations. Their last five matches include two wins, one draw, and two losses: a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, a 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid, a 1-1 draw with Celta Vigo, a dominant 5-0 win over Girona, and a 2-0 victory against Real Oviedo.
Marcelino’s side is known for its attacking prowess, with key players like Tajon Buchanan and Georges Mikautadze expected to lead the line. However, the team faces some injury concerns, with Gerard Moreno, Logan Costa, Pau Cabanes, and Willy Kambwala reported unavailable. Coach Marcelino has also hinted at squad rotation due to a packed schedule.
Osasuna
Osasuna concluded the 2024/2025 season in 9th place with 52 points (12 wins, 16 draws, 10 losses), demonstrating inconsistency but also periods of strong performance. They were unbeaten in their last four La Liga matches of the previous season. In their recent early 2025/2026 fixtures, Osasuna has shown resilience, with insights suggesting they scored 4 goals in their last 5 matches and kept 2 clean sheets. They recently secured a 2-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano, boosting their confidence.
For Osasuna, Moi Gomez and Aimar Oroz are notable absentees due to injury, impacting their midfield and attacking options. However, top scorer Ante Budimir is expected to return to the starting lineup, providing a significant boost to their offensive capabilities, potentially alongside Raúl Garcia.
Tactical Preview
Villarreal, under Marcelino, is widely expected to deploy a 4-4-2 formation. This system allows for a balanced approach, with strong midfield control and two potent strikers up front. The attacking threats are likely to come from the flanks, with players like Buchanan and Moleiro providing width and service to forwards such as Mikautadze and Pepe. The midfield battle will be crucial, with the likes of Comesaña and Gueye tasked with disrupting Osasuna’s play and initiating attacks.
Osasuna is also known for favoring a 4-4-2 system, although they have shown adaptability with variations like 4-3-1-2 or 4-3-3. Their style often involves a robust midfield and a direct approach in attack. With Moi Gomez and Aimar Oroz out, the responsibility for creativity will fall on others like Jon Moncayola and Lucas Torró in midfield, while Ante Budimir’s presence upfront will be key for aerial duels and finishing.
The match at Estadio de la Cerámica is expected to contend with “unstable” or “changeable” weather conditions. Such conditions could affect ball movement and aerial play, potentially favoring a more physical or direct style. Given Villarreal’s strong home form and Osasuna’s comparatively poor away record, the Yellow Submarine will look to dominate possession and exploit any defensive weaknesses.
