Málaga vs Villarreal: match facts, form and head-to-head – 17 September 2026, La Liga

Málaga host Villarreal in a clash that could decide whether either side escapes the relegation zone, with the hosts sitting 17th on three points from five games and Villarreal a shade lower in 18th with just two. Both clubs have yet to taste victory this season – Málaga have drawn three and lost twice, managing only two goals while conceding eight, whereas Villarreal have recorded two draws and two defeats, scoring six and also letting in eight. The encounter offers Málaga a chance to improve their goal difference, which currently stands at –6, while Villarreal will be looking to close the gap and overtake their rivals on the table. A point for either side would tighten the fight at the bottom, but three points could see one of them climb out of the danger zone for the first time this campaign.