Racing Santander - Villarreal

The new LaLiga season commences on Sunday, 16 August 2026, with Racing Santander hosting Villarreal at Estadio El Sardinero for matchday 1. Both sides will be looking to start their campaign positively, with Villarreal perhaps holding a slight edge based on historical encounters, including a 1-1 draw in the Primera Division on 15 April 2012. However, Racing Santander have also tasted victory against the Yellow Submarine, notably a 2-1 win in the Copa del Rey on 17 December 2025.

With no recent form data available for either club, the expected starting lineups offer the primary insight into their potential approach. Villarreal's expected XI features a potent attack, while Racing Santander's predicted lineup suggests a balanced formation. The opening fixture of any league season is often unpredictable, and the performance of these expected XIs will be crucial in determining who claims the first three points.