Sergio Ramos, doubt for Madrid against a pumped up rival

It would be presumptuous to say that today’s match is the biggest of the season so far for Real Madrid. The most serious, the one posing most danger. It may be a strange thing to say after having won the European Super Cup and the Club World Cup, as well as having hosted Barça and Atlético, visited Villarreal and Anfield. But Madrid have yet to face such a threatening opponent away from the shelter of the Bernabéu or without the general excuse of a newly launched campaign.

This afternoon, the Mestalla will reveal how much of that is true as they face a Madrid side that has been almost the undisputed favourite in every title they are going for. Today Valencia, and three days later Atlético, will help us discuss this issue. They will tell us if it is true that the team of Ancelotti suffers from exhaustion, phsyically and mentally, and if their 22-game winning run will come to an end. It showed on some nights in December and in Dubai, on the 30th.

Fortunately, that friendly defeat (4-2) does not count towards the world record for straight wins, which is currently held by Coritiba, who have 24 victories in row – two more than Madrid.

That world record adds even more fuel to the fire in a match which is full of attractions. The first will be the guard of honour for the world champions, courtesy of the new owners. The link between Lim, Mendes and Cristiano ensures a gesture of peace that will end by breaking ranks. That said, we admit that there is something unnatural about that.

For Valencia, the debut of Enzo Pérez, their Christmas reinforcement, will raise the local enthusiasm. For Madrid, the fitness issues surrounding Sergio Ramos have been the talking point. Varane may play, but stubbornness is prefixed, common sense needs to prevail.

Speaking of schemes, Ancelotti’s best line-up (including Isco, James and the BBC), will have a tough exam to pass in the volcano of the Mestalla, against a pillar of great midfielder. This will be the key.

from Últimas noticias | Diario AS http://ift.tt/1Ibw3QM

via IFTTT