Match Preview: Real Valladolid vs Valencia (December 13, 2024)

A Thrilling Clash of Underdogs

The 17th round of La Liga kicks off with an intriguing matchup between Real Valladolid and Valencia. While this might seem like a battle of underdogs, neither team can afford to back down, promising a game full of emotions. The last encounter saw Valencia claim victory, but the home side now has a golden chance for revenge.

Real Valladolid: A Fresh Start with Álvaro Rubio

Season Overview

After Paulo Pezzolano’s departure, club legend Álvaro Rubio took over the reins. Under his guidance, Valladolid has played two matches: a 4-2 win over Real Avila in the Copa del Rey and a 2-1 loss to Las Palmas in La Liga. While there haven’t been significant tactical changes, the team’s effort and energy on the pitch have noticeably improved.

Coach’s Comments

Following the loss in La Liga, Rubio expressed confidence:

“We can avoid relegation if we fight for every point. We need to be more clinical in front of goal, but I believe in this team.”

Lineup Insights

Rubio deployed a five-midfielder formation in the previous match, but the suspension of central defender Eray Cömert means young David Torres is likely to step in.

Projected lineup (4-5-1):
Hein – L. Pérez, Torres, J. Sánchez, Rosa – I. Sánchez, Martín, Jurič, K. Pérez, Silla – Marcos.

Unavailable players: Moro, Amallah, Kenedy (doubtful), Cömert (suspended).

Valencia: Struggles On and Off the Pitch

Season Woes

Valencia has lost its last two league matches: 2-1 against Mallorca and 1-0 against Rayo Vallecano. The impressive 4-2 win over Real Betis now feels like a distant memory. The midfield struggles to perform, and the team’s poor finishing adds to their troubles. Valencia ranks last in La Liga for passing accuracy (78%).

Transfer Rumors

There’s speculation that Manchester City is eyeing midfielder Pepelu, valued at €22 million, as a potential replacement for Rodri.

Injury Concerns

Key goalkeeper Mamardashvili is sidelined with an injury, forcing Stole Dimitrievski to step in. Full-backs Gayà and Foulquier are also out due to injuries.

Projected lineup (5-4-1):
Dimitrievski – López, Tárraga, Mosquera, Gassiorowski, Vázquez – Roja, Guerra, Barrenechea, Valera – Duro.

Unavailable players: Cöffrie, Correia, Foulquier, Gayà, Mamardashvili (injured).

Referee Spotlight

The match will be officiated by Miguel Ángel Ortiz Arias, known for his leniency in allowing physical play. He averages 19.25 fouls per match and hands out fewer yellow cards compared to the league average.

Head-to-Head Record

Valencia has a strong record away at Valladolid, with two wins and two draws in their last five meetings. These games have been tightly contested, often featuring low-scoring outcomes.

Our Prediction

Real Valladolid to win (odds 3.28). The home advantage and Valencia’s weakened defense tilt the scales in favor of Valladolid.

Bet: Both teams to score – No (odds 1.77). Valencia’s attack has been underwhelming, averaging less than one goal per game, making this a likely outcome.