The UEFA Champions League continues at Estadio de la Cerámica as Villarreal host defending champions Manchester City in a compelling Round 3 showdown. Kickoff is set for 3:00 PM ET on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, with both teams aiming to strengthen their position in the group.
Match Details
- Venue: Estadio de la Cerámica, Villarreal, Spain
- Capacity: 24,500
- Surface: Grass
- Weather Forecast: 73°F, clear
- Referee: Serdar Gözübüyük (Netherlands)
- Competition: UEFA Champions League – Group Stage, Round 3
How to Watch Live:
Stream the match on Paramount+ (US) or tune in via DAZN USA for full live coverage.
Team Form
Villarreal Recent Form:
- Villarreal 2–2 Real Betis
- Real Madrid 3–1 Villarreal
- Villarreal 2–2 Juventus
- Villarreal 1–0 Athletic Club
- Sevilla 1–1 Villarreal
Villarreal have shown resilience under pressure, grinding out draws against strong opponents like Juventus and Betis. However, their defensive inconsistency remains a concern, particularly when facing elite attacking sides like Manchester City. Coach Marcelino will rely heavily on Gerard Moreno and Alexander Sørloth to capitalize on counterattacking opportunities, while Dani Parejo’s composure in midfield will be crucial to slow City’s tempo.
Manchester City Recent Form:
- Manchester City 2–0 Everton
- Brentford 0–1 Manchester City
- Monaco 2–2 Manchester City
- Manchester City 5–1 Burnley
- Manchester City 2–0 Aston Villa
Pep Guardiola’s men are in top form, continuing their dominance across competitions. With Erling Haaland back to full fitness and Phil Foden in creative rhythm, City remain one of the most lethal attacking teams in Europe. Their defensive structure, led by Rúben Dias and Rodri, has also returned to its disciplined best.
Tactical Analysis
Expect Villarreal to adopt a compact, low-block setup, looking to frustrate City and hit on the break through pace in wide areas. Manchester City, meanwhile, will maintain heavy possession and use their positional rotations to stretch Villarreal’s back line.
Key matchup: Gerard Moreno vs. Rúben Dias — the Spanish forward’s movement and link play could test City’s defensive concentration.
Prediction
Villarreal’s home advantage could help them stay competitive early, but Manchester City’s precision, depth, and relentless control are likely to prevail over 90 minutes.
Prediction: Villarreal 1–3 Manchester City
Match Essentials
- Kickoff: Tuesday, October 21, 2025 — 3:00 PM ET
- Stadium: Estadio de la Cerámica (Villarreal, Spain)
- Broadcast: Paramount+, DAZN USA
- Weather: 73°F, clear
- Referee: Serdar Gözübüyük (Netherlands)