The pressure is on for Villarreal when they host Real Betis on Saturday after starting the season with back-to-back defeats.
Villarreal boss Fran Escriba on his side’s losing run: “We want to get rid of bad taste in our mouths from our first two defeats, which were influenced by our numerous absences.
“The idea is to start picking up points as soon as possible. We’ll try to get our first victory and give happiness to our fans, who will certainly support the team.”
Betis boss Quique Setien on the feel-good factor sweeping the Benito Villamarin: “It’s as if we’re going to play in the Champions League.
“Everyone wants to show they want to play, but the reality is different. Your opponents also want the same thing and, in football, desire alone doesn’t lead you to victory. Reality does.
“You have to work hard in order to overcome your opponents, although there’ll be days when you can’t.
“I want the fans to understand that feelings are important. They were excited about our win the other day, but we can still do better.
“I’m aspiring to do better, despite winning. There’ll be days when we lose by doing things better than we did the other day.
“The idea is to find balance so we can progress properly.”
Villarreal (probable): Barbosa; Rukavina, Alvaro, Victor Ruiz, Costa; Castillejo, Rodri, Trigueros, Fornals; Bacca, Bakambu
Injuries/suspensions: Marin, Andres Fernandez, Bruno, Soriano, Asenjo (I)
Real Betis (probable): Adan; Barragan, Mandi, Feddal, Durmisi; Javi Garcia, Camarasa, Guardado; Joaquin, Sergio Leon, Tello
Injuries/suspensions: Boudebouz, Campbell (I)
Referee: Medie Jimenez
Form guide: Villarreal (L L – – -) Betis (W L – – -)
Previous meeting: Betis 0-1 Villarreal
Kick-off time: 19:45 BST/20:45 local time
