Real Madrid eye getting back to winning ways as Villarreal target Bernabeu shock

Los Blancos are looking to respond after their heavy 5-2 defeat in the Madrid Derby last weekend, which ended their six-match winning streak in the league. Xabi Alonso's side know another slip before the international break could hand their rivals momentum in the title race.

Villarreal, sitting third in the table, have been one of the form teams in Spain this season, winning their last three matches against Athletic Club, Sevilla and Osasuna. Marcelino's men have lost only once in the league so far, away to Atletico Madrid, and travel to Madrid with confidence.

The head coach, who has faced Real Madrid four times since returning to Villarreal, admitted that his players must impose themselves early if they are to trouble the home side.

"If they don't start well and we start very well and are capable of causing discomfort, then they can become insecure," Marcelino said. "But since they have so many resources, they are aware that at any moment in the match they can turn the situation around, and we must avoid that."

Marcelino added that belief and attacking intent will be crucial for his team. "We must go into the match with the belief that we can create problems for them, and when we have the ball, we must try to hurt them," he said.

History offers little comfort for the visitors. Villarreal lost both meetings with Real Madrid last season and were beaten 4-1 in their last trip to the Bernabeu. However, they did manage a thrilling 4-4 draw at the Estadi de la Ceramica two years ago under Marcelino.

With Villarreal in strong form and Real Madrid under pressure to deliver a response, the clash promises high intensity at the Bernabeu as both teams aim to sign off with a statement before the break.