Atletico Madrid vs Villarreal Predictions

• Villarreal conceded at least twice in six of their visits to the other top eight teams
• The visitors drew 2-2 at promoted Racing Santander last week
• Both teams scored in Atletico’s four warm up matches
• Five of the last seven head-to-head encounters featured at least three goals

Atletico aim to make it two from two

Atletico Madrid saw off Malaga 2-0 in their return to action, but they face a bigger test on Sunday against a Villarreal side that finished above them last season.

The visitors have endured some upheaval since last term, with Inigo Perez taking over from Marcelino in the dugout. Perez comes highly rated after two strong seasons at Rayo Vallecano, and his links to Andoni Iraola suggest the Yellow Submarine should play some great football this term.

However, Villarreal had to come from behind to draw 2-2 with promoted Racing Santander last weekend. The visitors look vulnerable defensively, and they face an Atletico side that now has some brilliant attacking options to choose from.

Villarreal’s issues were on display in last season’s big away trips, as they conceded at least twice in all but one of their visits to their fellow top eight sides. They did thump Atletico 5-1 in their final game last season, something which should be fresh in the hosts’ minds.

All four of Atletico Madrid’s warm-up matches saw both teams score, so back goals in Sunday’s encounter.