Villarreal CF beats PSV 3-1 but falls 0-2 to Benfica in summer friendlies

Villarreal CF opened its 2026‑27 preseason with a 3-1 victory over Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven at the Philips Stadion. Georges Mikautadze opened the scoring in the 66th minute, followed by goals from Cheikh (72’) and Pau Cabanes (76’) to seal the win. The match showcased the tactical work of new manager Iñigo Pérez and the squad’s offensive potential.

Two weeks later the Spanish side travelled to Faro, Portugal, where they were beaten 2-0 by SL Benfica at the Estádio Algarve. Rafa Silva gave Benfica the lead, and Vangelis Pavlidis added a second in the second half. Pérez used the game to rotate his roster, giving minutes to a blend of experienced players and younger prospects as he begins to implement his ideas ahead of the La Liga campaign.