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Preview: Valencia vs. Sevilla - prediction, team news, lineups

about 1 year agoUS
Preview: Valencia vs. Sevilla - prediction, team news, lineupsSource: sportsmole.co.uk
La Liga action continues this weekend as Valencia host Sevilla at the Mestalla Stadium on Saturday evening. This match pits a Valencia side pushing for a European spot against a Sevilla team fighting to pull further clear of the relegation zone after a recent improvement in form.

Key Insights

Valencia's Home Comforts:: Valencia possess a strong home record this season (W6 D3 L2 at Mestalla), contrasting sharply with their away struggles. They sit 8th in La Liga.

Sevilla's Survival Fight:: Despite recent improvements under Quique Sanchez Flores (7 points from last 4 games), Sevilla are still only 15th, just six points above the drop zone.

Injury Woes for Sevilla:: The visitors are hampered by numerous injuries, potentially missing key players like Gudelj, Lukebakio, Marcao, Agoume, and others. Suso returns from suspension.

Valencia Absences:: Los Che are without Thierry Correia, Andre Almeida, and Diego Lopez due to injury.

Why this matters:: This match is crucial at both ends of the table. A win for Valencia strengthens their European aspirations, while points for Sevilla provide vital breathing room in their battle against relegation. The result significantly impacts the ambitions and pressures on both clubs.

In-Depth Analysis

Valencia come into this game looking to bounce back from a 2-0 defeat away to Las Palmas. Their home form, however, remains impressive, with 21 points gathered from 11 matches at Mestalla this season (W6 D3 L2). Manager Ruben Baraja has guided Los Che to 8th position, keeping hopes of European qualification alive.

Sevilla, under Quique Sanchez Flores, have experienced a slight resurgence, climbing to 15th place, six points clear of the relegation zone. They secured a vital 1-0 victory against Atletico Madrid last time out, showcasing improved defensive solidity. However, their away form has been poor (W2 D3 L7), and they face a significant injury crisis.

Historically, matches between these two sides can be tightly contested. Given Valencia's strength at home and Sevilla's extensive injury list coupled with poor away results, the advantage seems to lie with the hosts. Sevilla's recent uptick in form under Flores cannot be discounted, suggesting they might put up a stern fight, but overcoming their absentees at Mestalla will be a tall order.

FAQs

What time is the Valencia vs Sevilla match?

The kickoff time is Saturday, February 17th at 8 pm GMT / 3 pm ET.

Where is the match being played?

The match will be held at Valencia's home ground, Mestalla.

Are there any major injuries affecting the teams?

Yes, Valencia are missing Thierry Correia, Andre Almeida, and Diego Lopez. Sevilla have a longer injury list including Nemanja Gudelj, Dodi Lukebakio, Marcao, Lucien Agoume, Kike Salas, Mariano Diaz, and potentially Joan Jordan.

Key Takeaways

Who This Affects Most:: Fans of Valencia and Sevilla, La Liga followers, fantasy football managers.

Impact:: A Valencia win could see them climb closer to the European places, while a Sevilla victory would ease relegation fears significantly. A draw helps Sevilla more in their immediate survival fight.

Players to Watch:: Hugo Duro (Valencia's top scorer), Youssef En-Nesyri and Isaac Romero (Sevilla's attacking threats), Pepelu (Valencia midfield control).

How to Prepare (Figuratively):: Expect a potentially tight and physical match. Valencia will likely dominate possession at home, while Sevilla might look to counter-attack, relying on their recent defensive improvements.

Discussion

Sevilla have shown signs of improvement, but can they overcome their injury woes and Valencia's strong home record at Mestalla?

*Do you think Sevilla can pull off an away win, or will Valencia secure the points? Let us know your predictions below!*

*Share this article with other La Liga fans who need to stay ahead of this matchup!*

Sources & References

Source: Sports Mole

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