Villarreal extended their remarkable unbeaten run against Getafe to 14 matches with a determined 2–0 win at the Estadio de la Cerámica, a result that moves them to within just two points of LaLiga leaders Barcelona.

Chasing a sixth straight league victory, the hosts were made to work hard during a cagey first half as Getafe executed their game plan perfectly — slowing the tempo and defending deep to limit Villarreal’s attacking threat.

A series of early corners failed to create real danger, and the match didn’t produce its first effort on target until the 38th minute. Tajon Buchanan swung in a pinpoint cross for Georges Mikautadze, but the striker’s header lacked the power to beat David Soria.

As stoppage time ticked away and a goalless interval seemed certain, Buchanan produced a moment of brilliance to break the deadlock. Cutting inside from the right, the Canadian curled a stunning strike into the top corner, leaving Soria rooted and ensuring Villarreal opened the scoring in LaLiga for the 12th time this campaign.

Getafe’s uphill battle steepened shortly after the restart when Luis Milla was dismissed for dissent — his first straight red since the 2022/23 season — leaving the visitors a man down with over 40 minutes to play.

Villarreal capitalised on their numerical superiority just after the hour mark. Goalkeeper Luiz Junior launched a long pass forward that sent Mikautadze racing clear, and the Georgian forward showed supreme composure to lift a delicate chip over Soria and double the advantage.

With that, Villarreal secured their 22nd league win over Getafe — equalling their best record against any opponent — and strengthened their status as genuine title contenders as the season nears its midpoint.

Getafe’s push for European places continues to be hindered by away struggles. They have now lost five of their last six LaLiga matches on the road, failing to score in four of those outings.