Real Madrid vs. Villarreal: Where and How to Watch, Kick-Off Time, TV Channel, Live Stream and Prediction

Real Madrid will host Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, October 4, 2025, in a high-stakes La Liga clash. The match kicks off at 21:00 CEST (3:00 p.m. ET), with both teams sitting in the league’s top three. Real Madrid look to rebound after a shocking 5-2 derby defeat to Atlético Madrid, while Villarreal arrive unbeaten in their last four league games.

This fixture comes at a pivotal point in the season. Carlo Ancelotti’s side — powered by Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. — want to stay close to leaders Barcelona, while Marcelino’s Villarreal aim to keep their strong defensive record intact against one of Europe’s most dangerous attacks.

Real Madrid vs. Villarreal: Team News and Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid welcome back Eder Militao after an ankle issue, giving a boost to a back line that struggled against Atlético. However, Dani Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, Antonio Rüdiger and Trent Alexander-Arnold remain unavailable. Fede Valverde is expected to feature in midfield but could also be pushed slightly wider if needed.

Real Madrid predicted XI: Courtois; Asencio, Militao, Huijsen, Carreras; Tchouaméni, Valverde, Güler; Bellingham; Vinícius Jr., Mbappé.

Villarreal travel without Logan Costa, Willy Kambwala, Juan Foyth and Pau Cabanes due to injury. Key forwards Gerard Moreno and Ayoze Pérez face late fitness tests but remain doubtful for the starting lineup.

Villarreal predicted XI: Junior; Veiga, Mouriño, Cardona, Marin; Partey, Gueye, Moleiro; Solomon, Mikautadze, Pepe.

How and Where to Watch Real Madrid vs. Villarreal

Fans in Spain can watch the match on DAZN La Liga. In the United States, the game will be broadcast on ESPN Deportes and streamed live on ESPN+. Fubo and DirecTV Stream will also carry the match. Kick-off is set for 3 p.m. ET (12 p.m. PT) for U.S. viewers.

The Santiago Bernabéu will be electric as Real Madrid try to protect their unbeaten home record in La Liga this season. Villarreal, meanwhile, boast one of the best defensive units and will look to counter with speed against Madrid’s attacking front.

Match Outlook and Prediction

Real Madrid have scored 16 goals in their first seven league matches but showed defensive vulnerability in their recent derby loss. Villarreal, with just five goals conceded so far, will aim to frustrate and counter. The battle between Madrid’s fast front line and Villarreal’s structured defense will likely decide the game.

Fede Valverde’s positioning could be key — either anchoring the midfield to control transitions or pushing forward to support Mbappé and Vinícius. Villarreal will need Mikautadze and Pepe to stretch Madrid’s defense if they hope to snatch points away from home.

Prediction: Real Madrid 2-1 Villarreal — Los Blancos’ attacking firepower at the Bernabéu should edge a disciplined Villarreal side in a tight contest.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time does Real Madrid vs Villarreal start in the U.S.?

The match kicks off at 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT on Saturday, October 4, 2025.

Q2: Where can I watch Real Madrid vs Villarreal live?

Fans can watch on ESPN Deportes, ESPN+, Fubo, and DirecTV Stream in the U.S. DAZN La Liga airs it in Spain.

Q3: Will Fede Valverde play for Real Madrid?

Yes, Valverde is expected to start in midfield but could also play a more advanced role if required.

Q4: Who is unavailable for Real Madrid?

Dani Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, Antonio Rüdiger and Trent Alexander-Arnold are out due to injury.

Q5: What is Villarreal’s recent form?

Villarreal are unbeaten in their last four La Liga matches and recently drew 2-2 with Juventus in the Champions League.