Celta Vigo will be eager to claim their first La Liga victory of 2025 when they host Real Betis on Saturday afternoon at Estadio Municipal de Balaídos. With just one point garnered from their last four league matches, the hosts have slumped to 13th position, leaving them vulnerable. Real Betis sits at 10th place, having secured 29 points from their opening 22 games this season. The prediction for the match leans toward the hosts managing just enough to secure a point, with Celta Vigo expected to draw 1-1 with Real Betis.
Next up is Athletic Bilbao versus Girona, set to take place at San Mamés. Athletic aims to make it 14 unbeaten matches, currently holding fourth place and four points clear of fifth-placed Villarreal. Girona is one spot lower at seventh, just one point behind sixth-placed Rayo Vallecano, making this clash pivotal for European aspirations. Athletic Bilbao has been formidable at home, predicting a narrow win of 2-1 over Girona.
Meanwhile, Villarreal aims to continue their positive momentum with back-to-back wins against Las Palmas later the same day. Marcelino's squad, positioned fifth, will seek to narrow the gap with Athletic Bilbao above them and capitalize on Las Palmas who reside 15th, just two points clear of the relegation zone. Analysts see Villarreal winning 2-1, applying pressure for Champions League spots.
The day culminates with the iconic Madrid derby, where Real Madrid welcomes Atlético Madrid to the Santiago Bernabéu. This top-of-the-table clash sees Madrid leading the league, but only by one point over second-placed Atlético, intensifying the rivalry as Barcelona lurks behind. A thrilling draw is anticipated, likely 1-1, with both teams having previous matches conclude similarly. The atmosphere will be electric as fans prepare for the highly competitive rivalry.
The backdrop of these matches is filled with tension, particularly for Atlético manager Diego Simeone who has recorded significant wins against coach Carlo Ancelotti., boasting victories and doing so often against Real Madrid.
Expectations are high for Villarreal, who have bounced back from their previous setbacks. Despite the emotional weight with team captain Kirian Rodríguez dealing with his cancer relapse, they are motivated to push for Champions League qualification.
With important matches shaping the league, La Liga's Matchday 23 promises compelling action from clubs aiming for glory or survival. Fans will be watching intently as their teams battle for their season's aspirations.