Levante and Villarreal Eye Mid-February Date for Postponed Valencia Derby
Following weather chaos in Valencia, Levante propose February 18th for their rescheduled clash with Villarreal, ensuring African Cup of Nations players can participate.
Levante have officially proposed February 18, 2026 as the date to play their postponed La Liga fixture against Villarreal, following proper discussions with all parties involved.
Why Was It Postponed?
The original matchday 16 clash was called off due to extreme weather conditions, with a red alert declared across the entire Valencia province last Sunday. Not the first time the Valencia region’s weather has played havoc with the football calendar, is it?
February Makes More Sense Than January
While initial whispers suggested January 7th or 8th might be suitable dates (coinciding with the Spanish Super Cup), February offers a much more sensible solution for both clubs. The proposed February date hasn’t been plucked from thin air - it comes after careful consultation between:
- Levante
- Villarreal
- La Liga competition officials
The clubs determined this was “the most appropriate date” after weighing up all circumstances, according to Levante’s official statement.
African Cup of Nations Factor
The February timing is absolutely crucial as it ensures all players will be available for selection. If they’d gone with those early January dates, both sides would’ve been missing key players who’ll be representing their countries at the African Cup of Nations.
Players affected include:
- Levante: Etta Eyong (Cameroon)
- Villarreal: Abde Akhomach (Morocco) and Pape Gueye (Senegal)
It’s a proper stroke of common sense from the Valencian outfit, giving both teams the chance to field their strongest possible elevens rather than having a right old barney about unfair advantages.
The ball is now in the court of the Spanish FA’s Single Judge, who’ll need to rubber-stamp the proposal before it becomes official. Seems like a no-brainer, but you never know with football’s bureaucracy - it can move slower than my nan after Sunday dinner!