Valencia vs. Real Madrid: Match Preview, Predictions, and Lineups
This Friday evening, Valencia is set to host Real Madrid in a crucial La Liga clash at the iconic Mestalla Stadium. As Los Blancos return from their winter break, they find themselves poised to make significant strides in the league standings.
Match Significance
Real Madrid has not played since their impressive 4-2 win over Sevilla before Christmas. The match against Valencia, originally postponed due to severe flooding in the Valencian region back in November, represents an important opportunity for the Madrid giants. A victory would propel them above local rivals Atletico Madrid in the first place. Additionally, this match marks the beginning of a hectic schedule for Madrid, with Copa del Rey and Supercopa de España fixtures to follow in quick succession.
Valencia, currently struggling at the bottom of the table in 19th place, desperately needs points to lift them out of the relegation zone. New manager Carlos Corberan will be looking to make an immediate impact after taking charge of the team.
Kick-off Information:
- Location: Mestalla Stadium, Valencia, Spain
- Date: Friday, January 3
- Kick-off Time: 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
- Referee: Cesar Soto Grado
- VAR: Alejandro Muniz Ruiz
Head-to-Head Record
In their last five encounters, Valencia has claimed one victory, while Real Madrid secured three wins, with one match ending in a draw.
Recent Form
Valencia
- Valencia 2-2 Alaves
- Espanyol 1-1 Valencia
- Real Valladolid 1-0 Valencia
- Rayo Vallecano 0-1 Valencia
Real Madrid
- Real Madrid 4-2 Sevilla
- Real Madrid 3-0 Pachuca
- Real Madrid 3-3 Rayo Vallecano
- Real Madrid 3-0 Girona
Team News
Valencia: The home side is facing a challenging injury situation, with key defenders Mouctar Diakhaby, Jose Gaya, and Thierry Correia unavailable for selection. Goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili remains doubtful as he recovers from a thigh injury. Midfielder Pepelu is also suspended following his fifth yellow card of the season.
Valencia Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
- Dimitrievski; Foulquier, Mosquera, Gasiorowski, Rioja; Barrenechea, Guerra; Canos, Almeida, Lopez; Duro.
Real Madrid: Manager Carlo Ancelotti is also grappling with injuries, missing Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao for the season, while David Alaba’s return remains uncertain. Vinicius Junior returns to the lineup after serving a suspension, joining Rodrygo and Kylian Mbappe in a formidable attacking trio.
Real Madrid Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):
- Courtois; Vazquez, Tchouameni, Rudiger, Garcia; Valverde, Camavinga, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Mbappe, Vinicius.
Predictions
Despite Corberan’s arrival, Valencia’s injuries and overall struggle in form suggest they may face another defeat. With only two victories in La Liga, they are the lowest-scoring team in the league. In contrast, Real Madrid boasts a wealth of attacking talent, which could prove decisive.
Prediction: Valencia 1 – 3 Real Madrid