The La Liga match between Valencia and Real Madrid, originally scheduled for October, was officially postponed due to the devastating impact of Storm Dana. Fans can mark their calendars for the rescheduled date on January 3, 2025, at 21:00h, at the Estadio Mestalla.
Real Madrid, currently sitting second in La Liga standings with 40 points from 18 matches, will be striving to capitalize on this clash. They can edge ahead of their city rivals, Atletico Madrid, who are one point above them but have played one game less. The match’s importance intensifies with Real Madrid's recent form, having won four out of their last five competitive fixtures, including a 4-2 home victory over Sevilla. Goals from Kylian Mbappe, Federico Valverde, Rodrygo, and Brahim Diaz have put Los Blancos on the right track as they head toward this key matchup.
Valencia, on the other hand, finds itself embroiled in relegation troubles, sitting precariously at 19th place with only 12 points to their name. Carlos Corberan, the club's new head coach following his departure from West Bromwich Albion, will be making his debut against one of the toughest opponents they could face. "This clash is new Valencia boss Carlos Corberan's first game in charge," reported Sports Mole, underlining the pressure he faces right from the start.
For the match, referee César Soto Grado has been designated to oversee the proceedings, marking his tenth game officiated this season. This season, Soto Grado has issued 40 yellow cards and three red cards, with yet to award any penalties. His appointment adds another layer of intrigue to this already pivotal encounter.
On the injury front, Real Madrid celebrated the return of Vinicius Junior, who was suspended for their last league fixture. Meanwhile, manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed his intent to manage player rotations, preparing for upcoming Copa del Rey and Super Cup matches. Notably, David Alaba has returned to light training but remains sidelined, along with fellow defenders Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao, both facing season-ending injuries.
Meanwhile, Valencia faces its challenges with some key names unavailable. Midfielder Pepelu will miss the match due to suspension, and Fran Perez will undergo fitness tests before the game. Further complicate matters are the absences of thorough injuries, like those for Jose Luis Gaya, Thierry Correia, and Mouctar Diakhaby. The situation leaves Valencia's squad depth tested as they go head-to-head with Real Madrid.
With the stakes high, both teams have significant motivation pulling them forward—Real Madrid striving for the top of the league as they eye Atletico Madrid, and Valencia fighting to stay out of the danger zone. "Real Madrid can edge ahead of league leaders Atletico Madrid with victory," highlighted by Sports Mole.
This upcoming match promises to be one filled with tension, excitement, and high stakes as January rolls around. Fans and players alike will look forward to this clash, eager to see how it could shape the remainder of the La Liga season.