Preview: Atletico Madrid vs Valencia
Atletico Madrid return to La Liga action where they welcome Valencia to the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano on Wednesday, after beating Eibar 1-0 on last Saturday.
Atletico slender hope to beat Barcelona to the title race were buried in a recent clash against the Catalans Giants at Camp Nou, where they lost 2–0. Simeone’s men will be motivated and must perform to hold on to a second-place finish below Barcelona. With Real Madrid just 4 points behind, Atletico must win a fair share of matches and not let Real overtake them.
Just 2 points behind Getafe, Valencia will also try to keep their push for a top four place going. Valencia are capable of making a difference but Marcelino might be tempted to rest some key men here. Even with their best, it’s quite tough for them to win this match. Marcelino might rest and keep a few fresh legs for the weekend match and the Europa League Semi-Final against Arsenal.
It is likely to be tight clash, but with home advantage, Atletico might just edge it. Valencia will defend deep and try to play on the break so Atletico might need to be patient and backing a 1-0 home win. They’ve got Antoine Griezmann back from suspension and Stefan Savic should return in defence to strengthen it. So, it should be a significantly stronger team than the one that beat Eibar.
Atlético Madrid defender, José Giménez
With Diego Costa suspended, Lucas Hernandez operated on his right knee, and Gimenez picking up an injury in the weekend against Eibar, Atletico will have to face Valencia with the remaining options they have at their disposal.
Atletico's defensive record at home this season has been exceptional and their total of seven goals conceded in 16 games is the lowest in the division. Simeone's side have won eight of their last nine home games, keeping clean sheets in all eight of those victories.
Valencia, however, arrive in the Spanish capital having scored in eight of their last nine away games in La Liga - including twice at Camp Nou.