This match has derby status. It’s important for Valencia and their fans to put in a big performance against their rivals, who are looking set to take the hosts place in the Champions League next season.
Although it has been a tough season for Valencia, they have been playing some quality football recently, while Villarreal have had very little time to prepare. Moreover, I would say that Villarreal have prepared mostly for the second leg against Liverpool in the Europa League and therefore have given this game little thought. Without exaggeration, the Europa League semi-final is the most important match for the Yellow Submarine in ages.
So, coach Marcelino is likely to rest some some of his key players here, much like Zinedine Zidane and Diego Simeone did in the gap between their semi-final battles in the Champions League.
Therefore, in the present circumstances, it is reasonable to bet on Valencia as they are likely to be the much more motivated side here. The Mestalla stadium is waiting for the enemy’s blood, and Villarreal’s mind will be in England.