The final La Liga fixture of 2025 promises to be a thrilling top-of-the-table clash as third-placed Villarreal CF host league leaders FC Barcelona at the Estadio de la Cerámica on Sunday, December 21, 2025. Kick-off is at 4:15 PM CET.
Barcelona, under Hansi Flick, have been in sensational form, topping the La Liga standings with a four-point lead over Real Madrid after winning their last seven league games. Villarreal, managed by Marcelino, sit third with games in hand and boast the league’s best defensive record, conceding just 13 goals so far this season.
This Villarreal vs Barcelona encounter could have major implications for the title race heading into 2026.
Current Form
FC Barcelona enter the match on a high, having secured six consecutive victories across all competitions. Their attack has been prolific, scoring 49 goals in La Liga – the highest in the division. However, defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern away from home.
Villarreal CF have shown a split personality this season: unbeatable on weekends with six straight La Liga wins on Saturdays or Sundays, but struggling midweek (including a recent Copa del Rey exit). They remain a formidable force at home, where they’ve been nearly perfect.
Potential Lineups
Villarreal CF (4-4-2)
- GK: Luiz Junior
- Defense: Pau Navarro, Rafa Marin, Renato Veiga, Alfonso Pedraza
- Midfield: Tajon Buchanan, Santi Comesaña, Dani Parejo, Alberto Moleiro
- Attack: Ayoze Pérez, Georges Mikautadze
With depth issues on the bench, Marcelino may rely on pace and wing play to exploit Barcelona’s defense.
FC Barcelona (4-2-3-1)
- GK: John Garcia
- Defense: Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Alejandro Balde
- Midfield: Eric Garcia, Frenkie de Jong
- Attack: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Ferran Torres (or Marcus Rashford), Robert Lewandowski
Score Prediction
Both teams are in excellent domestic form – Villarreal unbeaten in recent weekend league games, Barcelona on a seven-game La Liga winning streak. Villarreal’s home strength and solid defense make them dangerous, but Barcelona’s attacking firepower and depth should prove decisive.
Predicted Score: Villarreal 1-3 FC Barcelona
Barcelona villarreal
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