Barcelona vs Villarreal

Overview

FC Barcelona is set to host Villarreal CF at the Spotify Camp Nou on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 5:15 AM EEST. This La Liga Matchday 26 fixture is pivotal for both teams as they vie for crucial points in the league standings. Barcelona, leading the table, aims to extend their dominance, while Villarreal seeks to close the gap and solidify their position in the top three.

Season Snapshot

FC Barcelona

Barcelona has been in formidable form this season, leading La Liga with 20 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses through 25 matches. Their offensive prowess is evident, averaging 2.68 goals per game, while their defense has conceded only 25 goals, resulting in a goal difference of +42. At home, they have been particularly dominant, winning their last 14 league matches at the Camp Nou, scoring at least two goals in each. (betmines.com)

Villarreal CF

Villarreal occupies third place in the league with a record of 16 wins, 3 draws, and 6 losses. They have been consistent in attack, averaging 1.88 goals per match, and have a solid defensive record with 27 goals conceded, leading to a goal difference of +20. However, their away form has been less impressive, with only three wins in their last ten away games. (betmines.com)

Recent Form

FC Barcelona

Barcelona's recent performances have been strong, with four wins and two losses in their last six matches. Their most recent outing was a commanding 3-0 victory over Levante on February 22, 2026, which extended their home winning streak to 14 matches. During this run, they have averaged 2.7 goals scored and 1.0 conceded per match, showcasing both offensive and defensive stability. (betmines.com)

Villarreal CF

Villarreal has shown resilience in their recent fixtures, securing three wins, one draw, and suffering two losses in their last six league games. Their latest match was a 2-1 victory over Valencia, maintaining their third-place position in the league. Despite this, their away form remains a concern, with only one win in their last five away games. (betmines.com)

Talking Points

• Barcelona's Home Dominance: Can Barcelona continue their impressive home form against a resilient Villarreal side?

• Villarreal's Away Challenge: Will Villarreal overcome their away form struggles to challenge Barcelona at the Camp Nou?

• Injury Concerns: How will the absence of key players like Frenkie de Jong and Andreas Christensen impact Barcelona's midfield and defense?

• Attacking Prowess: With both teams boasting strong attacking units, which side will capitalize on scoring opportunities?

• Top Three Implications: How crucial is this match for Villarreal's aspirations to secure a top-three finish and Champions League qualification?

Players to Watch

• Lamine Yamal (Barcelona): The young forward has been in exceptional form, contributing significantly to Barcelona's attacking play.

• Raphinha (Barcelona): His pace and creativity on the wing have been instrumental in Barcelona's offensive strategies.

• Alberto Moleiro (Villarreal): As Villarreal's top scorer with nine goals this season, his performance will be pivotal.

• Georges Mikautadze (Villarreal): The forward has been a consistent goal threat, adding depth to Villarreal's attack.

• Pape Gueye (Villarreal): His presence in midfield will be crucial in disrupting Barcelona's rhythm and controlling the game's tempo.

Key Matchups & Storylines

• Midfield Battle: With Frenkie de Jong sidelined for Barcelona, the midfield contest between Pedri and Villarreal's Pape Gueye could be decisive.

• Wing Play: Barcelona's wingers, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, will look to exploit Villarreal's full-backs, especially with Gerard Martin suspended for accumulating too many yellow cards. (aljazeera.com)

• Defensive Resilience: Villarreal's defense, missing key players due to injuries, will be tested against Barcelona's potent attack.

• Away Form: Villarreal's ability to perform away from home will be under scrutiny, given their mixed results in recent away fixtures.

Fun Facts

• Barcelona has won their last 14 home matches in La Liga, scoring at least two goals in each. (betmines.com)

• Villarreal has won their last two visits to Camp Nou, including a 5-3 victory in January 2024. (aljazeera.com)

• The most recent encounter between these teams was a 2-0 victory for Barcelona in December 2025. (aljazeera.com)

• Alberto Moleiro is Villarreal's top scorer this season with nine goals in 24 league appearances. (betbrain.com)

• Barcelona has not drawn in their last 22 La Liga matches, showcasing a consistent winning mentality. (betmines.com)

Things to Chirp About

• "Can Barcelona maintain their perfect home record against Villarreal?"

• "Will Villarreal's away form improve to challenge Barcelona at Camp Nou?"

• "How will Barcelona cope without Frenkie de Jong in midfield?"

• "Is Alberto Moleiro the key to unlocking Barcelona's defense?"

Prediction

Barcelona's formidable home form and Villarreal's challenges away from home suggest a favorable outcome for the hosts. While Villarreal has the potential to pose a threat, especially with their attacking talents, Barcelona's depth and home advantage are likely to secure them a victory.