Fri Oct 04 03:57:54 UTC 2024: ## Real Madrid Seek Redemption Against Villarreal After First Defeat Since January

**Madrid, Spain:** Reigning Spanish and European champions Real Madrid are looking to bounce back from their first defeat since January when they face Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday. Carlo Ancelotti’s side suffered a shock 2-1 loss to Lille in the Champions League midweek, leaving them trailing Barcelona by three points in La Liga.

Madrid’s disappointing start to the season has seen them draw their opening game and struggle to find consistency. They were unable to capitalise on Barcelona’s first loss of the season last weekend, drawing 1-1 against city rivals Atlético Madrid.

Ancelotti has admitted that his side played poorly against Lille, highlighting a lack of intensity and poor ball control. “We did everything wrong,” he stated. “We have to look at things with a cool head and improve.”

The return of Kylian Mbappe from injury could provide a boost to Real Madrid’s attack. However, they will be without key midfielder Toni Kroos, who retired after last season’s title double. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is also sidelined with an injury, meaning Ukrainian Andre Lunin will continue between the sticks.

Villarreal, currently third in the table, have been a strong force this season, spearheaded by Spain international Ayoze Pérez. However, the Yellow Submarine have conceded in every match so far, offering Madrid a chance to exploit their defensive vulnerabilities.

This weekend also sees Barcelona face Alaves, while Atlético Madrid and Girona are both in action against Basque rivals Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao respectively. The Spanish veteran winger Jesús Navas will make his final appearance in the Seville derby, a fixture he has played in a record 27 times.

Real Madrid will be determined to bounce back against Villarreal and put pressure on Barcelona at the top of the table. A victory at the Bernabeu would draw them level on points with their Catalan rivals and reignite their title ambitions.

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