The clash between Valencia and Atletico Madrid at the renowned Mestalla Stadium promises to be one of the biggest fixtures on the La Liga calendar this Saturday afternoon.
Valencia currently sits 11th in the table, having accumulated six points from their first four matches of the new season. On the other hand, Atletico Madrid holds the fourth position with seven points from three games.
Valencia had a disappointing campaign in the previous season, finishing 16th in the table, which was their lowest final spot in Spain’s top flight since their relegation in 1987.
The club has struggled to regain its form, with their last four finishes in La Liga being ninth, 13th, ninth, and 16th.
However, the 2023-24 season started impressively for Ruben Baraja’s side, winning consecutive matches against Sevilla and Las Palmas. Unfortunately, they suffered defeats in their last two games against Osasuna and Alaves.
Valencia’s current position in the table, along with the lack of squad depth, makes it difficult to envision them competing for a European position this season.
It is worth noting that Valencia has not defeated Atletico Madrid in La Liga since October 2014 and has lost five out of their last six encounters, including a 1-0 defeat at Mestalla last season.
Atletico Madrid has only played three league matches this season due to a postponed game against Sevilla. Their most recent match was a comprehensive 7-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano in late August, which elevated them to seven points for the season.
Diego Simeone’s side started their campaign with a 3-1 win against Granada before securing a point away to Real Betis. They are now preparing for their third away game of the season.
In addition to their domestic responsibilities, Atletico Madrid will soon turn their attention to the Champions League, as they travel to Italy to face Lazio in their group-stage opener on Tuesday night.
Valencia’s recent form in La Liga: W W L L
Atletico Madrid’s recent form in La Liga: W D W
Team News:
Valencia will continue to be without Gabriel Paulista, Alberto Mari, and Samu Castillejo due to injury. However, apart from these absences, they have a relatively fit squad. Head coach Baraja is expected to maintain stability in his lineup following the narrow defeat to Alaves.
For Atletico Madrid, there is a lengthy injury list, including Vitolo, Samuel Lino, Memphis Depay, Koke, Jose Gimenez, and Reinildo.
Yannick Carrasco has also departed for Saudi Arabia since their last match. However, Saul Niguez could feature as the left-sided wing-back in Lino’s absence.
Alvaro Morata showcased his goal-scoring prowess off the bench against Rayo and is expected to partner Antoine Griezmann in attack. Marcos Llorente is set to start in central midfield.
Predicted Starting Lineups:
Valencia:
- Mamardashvili
- Foulquier
- Diakhaby
- Ozkacar
- Gaya
- Correia
- Guerra
- Pepelu
- Canos
- Almeida
- Duro
Atletico Madrid:
- Oblak
- Molina
- Savic
- Witsel
- Hermoso
- Saul
- De Paul
- Barrios
- Llorente
- Griezmann
- Morata
Prediction:
We predict a tight contest with Atletico Madrid coming out on top. While they may not replicate their stunning 7-0 victory, the capital giants possess enough quality to secure another three points against a Valencia side that has been disappointing in their recent matches.