In a fierce battle that saw three red cards, Valencia lost to Getafe with a score of 0:1, marking their third defeat in the last four La Liga duels. This pushed them into the crowded mid-table. While direct relegation danger is not imminent, a nine-point gap from the bottom three could quickly diminish if results don’t improve. Coach Ruben Baraja also risks losing three consecutive matches in the league for the first time since taking charge, which should only enhance the motivation to return to the winning path. However, there is good news the “Oranges” haven’t lost at the Mestalla Stadium in three league matches. Not available to help their team today are Gerra, Gaya, Amalla, and Almeida, who has a leg injury.
Barcelona could alter the course of history in head-to-head clashes, as the Catalans have defeated Valencia in six consecutive top-flight matches. To achieve this, the “Blaugrana” will need to improve their dreadful form, highlighted by the shocking 2:3 defeat to Antwerp on Wednesday in the Champions League. Despite already qualifying, this was the second consecutive fiasco for Xavi’s proteges, as they also lost to Girona with a score of 2:4 in the last league game, falling seven points behind in the title race. Moreover, the inconsistent Catalans have dropped points in three of their last four away matches in La Liga, and in each of these draws, they had to come from behind after conceding first. Xavi would not want his team to tempt fate and play catch-up again, especially since they managed to avoid it in three consecutive head-to-head duels. Out of the game today are Ter Stegen, Gavi, Alonso, and Martinez, who has a muscle injury.
