I will bet on Madrid's win today, they need a win to take over first place in the Laliga standings. This situation will encourage Carlo Ancelotti's squad to play optimally in the match against Villarreal
By the way, Villarreal's statistics are superior to Valencia this season. I'm not surprise to see the results of the meet between the two teams last week.
King Benzema is back and he started 2023 year so good. If he won't get any serious injury or avoid injuries in 2023, he can contribute a lot for Real Madrid. He is still so ambitious and his ability is verified with a latest Ballon d'Or as well as his performance after that. Even Benzema has had little chances to play in this season because of some injuries, when he was available, he played well for his club.
Villareal is a challenge for Real and they are one of biggest surprises in La Liga this season. We knew in the past season Villareal made some great adventure in Champions League but their performance in La Liga this season is more impressive.
Villarreal now plays productive football, it's not very similar to them, earlier they hoped only for the reliability of their defense. It's good that Benzema is back in the game, it will be a difficult game for Real's attack today, because although Villarreal concedes in almost every match, their defense is still very strong. Losing Carvajal can be felt for Real's defense. Villarreal has a good winning streak, but it could be interrupted today, do you think it could be a draw?
If Villareal continue to play and score goals like previous matches, the match with Real Madrid might have many goals. That is a great celebration for their fans in a new year.
I don't think this match will end with a draw and a winner will be Real Madrid. I know Villareal have one of most impressive seasons in La Liga in their history but Real Madrid can have three points from Villareal.