Two of La Liga’s top four sides will battle for a top-three finish when Villarreal host Atletico Madrid at Estadio de la Ceramica on Sunday.

Villarreal are looking to bounce back from consecutive defeats, while Atletico Madrid are chasing a third straight victory.

Villarreal vs Atletico Madrid key stats

Five of the last six meetings saw both teams score

Three of the last four H2Hs at this stadium ended in draws

At least five cards were shown in six of the last seven meetings

Villarreal remain one of La Liga’s strongest home sides

Despite losing 2-0 to Rayo Vallecano last weekend, Villarreal have been excellent at home throughout the campaign.

Marcelino’s side have won 14 of their 18 league games at this stadium and scored heavily during that run.

Only two teams in La Liga have scored more goals than Villarreal this season.

Atletico chasing another strong finish

Atletico Madrid defeated Girona 1-0 last weekend to secure back-to-back victories.

Diego Simeone’s men are level on points with Villarreal heading into this clash, with the winner guaranteed to finish inside the top three.

Atletico are unbeaten in their last six meetings with Villarreal and have lost just once in the last 15 H2Hs.

Griezmann set for emotional farewell

This match will mark Antoine Griezmann’s final appearance for Atletico Madrid after two spells spanning a decade at the club.

The visitors remain without several important players due to injury, while Robin Le Normand is suspended.

Prediction

Although Villarreal are favourites with the bookmakers, Atletico’s recent dominance in this fixture cannot be ignored.

Given Atletico’s attacking threat and recent scoring record at this stadium, backing the visitors to score at least twice looks appealing.

Prediction

Atletico Madrid over 1.5 team goals