Valencia v Real Madrid

The Galacticos arrive in Valencia hoping to continue their winning run. Do Valencia have any hope in front of their passionate fans?

Valencia v Real Madrid – Mestalla 17:30 CET

Team News:

Valencia have two keepers unavailable with Julen Agirrezabala injured and Cristian Rivero suspended. Stole Dimitrievski will fill in between the posts. Key defender Mouctar Diakhaby is injured and Thierry Correia is doubtful.

Real Madrid have key men out in all areas. Eder Militao, Jude Bellingham, Vini Jr and Rodrygo all miss out here. Trent is back finally and could start at right back. Further good news is Mendy and Rudiger both available to bolster the back line.

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Formations:

Valencia’s 4-2-3-1 has morphed into a rigid 4-4-2 in recent games with mixed results. It would seem likely they move back to the more defensive 2 holding midfielders for this one.

4-3-3 for Real Madrid although Vini was alongside Mbappe in the last match in what looked 4-4-2. With injuries to key attackers here we will see a reshaped Madrid. If Trent is back fit Valverde will replace Bellingham and we should see the 4-3-3.

Statistics:

Referee: N/A

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Match Preview:

Valencia sit just one point above the relegation zone, though their home form has been solid, with only two defeats at Mestalla this season. Real Madrid, meanwhile, are aiming to secure a seventh consecutive La Liga victory. With several key players missing, the visitors may find this a tougher encounter than usual. Valencia are expected to raise their level, but taking points from this matchup will be a considerable challenge.

Betting Preview:

Real Madrid may find themselves four points behind Barcelona by kick‑off, but despite injuries in key areas, they still possess enough quality to overcome a vulnerable Valencia side. It should be a tight encounter, yet Madrid’s depth gives them the edge. A straight Real Madrid win — or a win to nil — looks the most reasonable call, as Valencia are unlikely to pose much of an attacking threat.