Funes warns Málaga must score at least two to beat Villarreal | OneFootball

Funes says Málaga will need at least two goals to beat Villarreal at La Rosaleda on Thursday, highlighting the opposition’s firepower. According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, the Málaga coach is unconvinced by Villarreal’s league position and argues their underlying numbers outstrip results.

He described Iñigo Pérez’s side as quick to advance, packing bodies in the final third and creating favourable finishing situations. Villarreal are averaging more than 15 shots per match, with an impressive attacking output and outstanding play through the middle.

Funes went further, saying the data indicates they should be in Champions League contention. Citing the meeting with Betis, he said that if Villarreal sustain for 90 minutes the level they showed in the first hour, they could be among Spain’s best.

Against that backdrop, he called for ambition in attack and stressed that failing to score two would make a first win highly unlikely. His message was to take the game to Villarreal and be decisive in front of goal.

Málaga will be without Adam Aznou, who has a left adductor overload, and Jens Cajuste, sidelined with a quadriceps issue. Striker Adrián Niño will return to the squad.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo

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