Pafos vs Villarreal prediction, H2H and probable lineups, 5.11.2025

By Author On Nov 5, 2025

The Europa League heats up this week as Cypriot side Pafos FC welcome Spanish outfit Villarreal to the Stelios Kyriakides Stadium. It’s a classic David vs Goliath kind of match—Pafos aiming to shock the big boys while Villarreal look to flex their European experience.

Both sides are still in the hunt for knockout qualification, making this clash more than just a group stage formality.

Form Guide

Pafos:
The Cypriot team have been solid at home lately, picking up good results in domestic matches and proving tough to break down. They’ve also shown flashes of attacking promise in Europe, though consistency is still a question mark. Pafos will need to keep things tight at the back and hope their forwards can make the most of any chances.

Villarreal:
The Yellow Submarine haven’t been at their best in La Liga this season but remain a dangerous side in Europe. Their technical quality, quick transitions, and set-piece strength make them a handful for any opponent. Villarreal will look to control possession and kill the tempo early on.

Head-to-Head (H2H)

This will be the first-ever meeting between Pafos and Villarreal. The Spanish side go into the tie as heavy favorites on paper, but Pafos have proven capable of surprises, especially in front of their home fans.

Team News

Pafos:
No major injury concerns for the hosts, though a few players are carrying knocks. Coach Juan Carlos Carcedo might stick to his preferred 4-2-3-1, hoping his wide men can exploit Villarreal’s defensive gaps.

Villarreal:
The visitors could rotate slightly with a busy fixture list ahead. Gerard Moreno and Alexander Sørloth are expected to feature up front, while Parejo should run things from midfield. A few regulars might be rested, but expect a strong lineup overall.

Players to Watch

Jairo (Pafos): The winger has been a livewire for the Cypriot side, capable of changing games with his pace and trickery.
Gerard Moreno (Villarreal): Villarreal’s talisman remains a constant goal threat and will fancy his chances against a less experienced defense.

Prediction

It’s hard to look past Villarreal here. Their experience, quality, and depth should see them through, though Pafos will fight hard and won’t make it easy.

Predicted Score: Pafos 1–3 Villarreal

Betting Tips

Both Teams to Score – Yes (Pafos tend to find a goal at home)
Over 2.5 Goals (Villarreal’s attacking play usually delivers action)
Anytime Goalscorer: Gerard Moreno (Always clinical in front of goal)

Final Thoughts

Pafos will enjoy this big night under the lights, and even if they don’t grab the win, they can still make life uncomfortable for Villarreal. Expect goals, flair, and a few nervy moments—everything we love about midweek European football nights.