Villarreal CF VS FC Barcelona

Prediction:

Based on current form and stats, we expect a close contest with a final score of 1-2 in favor of FC Barcelona.
Villarreal will sit slightly deeper and aim to force turnovers for rapid counters and set-piece opportunities; Barcelona will probe through wide combinations and positional rotations — success depends on Barcelona breaking Villarreal’s compact midfield without leaving gaps for counters.
Villarreal’s counter threat and set-pieces raise the probability of goals for both sides and reduce margin of victory for Barcelona; Barcelona’s superior possession and chance-creation still tilt expected outcome toward an away win but with a significant draw/upset chance.