Spanish La Liga: Real Madrid vs. Valencia CF – Match Preview (Part 1)
Bouncing back from humiliation
Jose Mourinho might not admit his side were humiliated by a rampant Blaugrana outfit, but if a 5 – 0 score line in El Clasico is not humiliation, then God knows what is. The club lost all its dignity along with Jose’s unbeaten status as Galacticos came down crumbling. With the defeat placed firmly at the back of their minds, Los Merengues take on a dangerous Valencia outfit; not the ideal time to play such a game.
However, Jose Mourinho has been known for his mental strength over the years. The coach can bounce back from the worst of defeats in an emphatic manner and nothing less can be expected of him going into this match.
The match in Barcelona made it evident that Merengues are a ‘work-in-progress’ side and not ready to take on the Catalan might head on, at least not now. Mourinho echoed the same sentiments in the post match press conference.
“One team played very good, one team very bad. I have always said that Barcelona are a finished product and Madrid are a long way short”, he said.
While Barca go around dispatching their opposition with consummate ease, Real will have to win their remaining games in order to keep the pressure on reigning Champions.
Jose Mourinho and his men would do well to forget the defeat and return to winning ways. The poor result at Camp Nou might be well documented in the media, but it was just three points in the end. With just two points being the difference between the two rivals, there is everything to play for in La Liga.
Los Che battling for consistency
Valencia made a brilliant start to the latest edition of La Liga where they registered five victories in the opening six games. However, the purple patch was followed by a stutter, as Los Che tasted defeat in three of their next four games. Things have improved ever since, but the blip has cost Unai Emery’s side a Champions league spot; Valencia are fifth in the League at this stage.
Los Che might be one of the most decorated clubs is Spain, but they will always remain underdogs when facing Real Madrid. However, having said that, Mourinho’ men will be eager to impress the Bernabeu faithful in the wake of defeat and will play like wounded lions looking for a way out. The game has the tendency to go completely out of hand against Valencia.
While Valencia have accumulated most of their points at Mestalla stadium, lately, there form on away trips has left a lot to be desired; Los Che’s last away victory came on 25th September.
Madrid might still be recovering from their 5–0 mauling, but veteran goalkeeper Cesar Sanchez is taking nothing for granted.
He said, “They will want to play. Both Real Madrid and Barcelona are at their highest level ever. In addition, Madrid are characterised by being able to recover from painful losses, and they will be looking forward to Saturday’s game. We have the same desire to win as them. We must play our game and work hard for 90 minutes, because they will not forgive mistakes, and they can change the game in an instant.”
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