Villarreal defeat Real Betis, 1-0

Villarreal defeated a tepid Real Betis 1-0 today, the only goal of the match coming from Adrián López shortly after halftime. The Submarine could have made it an easier win, but Adrian and Bakambu both hit the woodwork and Nicola Sansone was denied in a one-on-one with keeper Adan.

Coming in the midst of a busy week, this jornada’s matches clearly favor the deeper clubs, and Villarreal made seven changes from the side that lost to Eibar on Sunday. Our internationals all started; Jaume Costa and Bruno were rested in favor of José Ángel and Rodri, while Adrian Lopez replaced Roberto Soldado.

It was Ángel who provided the outstanding play of the match, working hard to beat two Betis defenders near the end line and cross the ball to an unmarked Adrián at the far post.

This win keeps Villarreal ahead of Athletic Club, whom we host Friday (51 points vs. 50) and with Real Sociedad’s loss to Athletic, they are now in seventh, on 49 points.

Slumping Sevilla play away at Barcelona tomorrow, so it’s possible we could remain seven points out of fourth when tomorrow is done. (Sevilla host Deportivo on Saturday, though, which should be a win for them).

Now we look a head to a big match on Friday. Villarreal need to win to put some space between them and Athletic, and gain revenge for a 1-0 loss to Los Leones earlier in the season. Endavant Villarreal!!