Los Che is the latest side hoping to end Real Madrid's near record winning streak.
La Liga returns after the winter break bearing the gift of a reasonably fascinating match-up, as Real Madrid travels to face Valencia on Sunday. Madrid are of course the league leaders -- it's probably safe to assume everyone knows this, but we're just covering our bases here -- while Los Che would love nothing more than to continue their strong form from 2014 by tripping up the would-be champions.
Valencia's home form has been outstanding so far this season, with just two sides -- Barcelona and Athletic Club -- having been able to take points off Los Che at the Mestalla. The trouble is, Real Madrid is far better than either Barca or Athletic this season, which makes the task ahead of Nuno's team even tougher.
Motivation won't be a problem for Valencia, but let's be honest here, Madrid are a footballing equivalent of a buzzsaw, having won a remarkable 22 matches in a row ... friendly losses don't count by the way.
Valencia midfielder Javi Fuego is suspended for the match after collecting his fifth yellow card in their final match of 2014. This could open he door for the newly signed Enzo Perez to make a start in his place. Madrid's only injury concern is fullback Marcelo who injured his thigh against San Lorzeno in the Club World Cup. He was expected to miss three weeks, but returned to training early. Chances are that Carlo Ancelotti won't risk him, but you never know.
Valencia injuries and suspensions
Out: Javi Fuego (suspended).
Real Madrid injuries and suspensions
In Doubt: Marcelo (thigh).
Match Date/Time: Sunday, 5 p.m. local, 11 a.m. ET
Venue: Estadio de Mestalla, Valencia, Spain
TV: beIN Sports (U.S. - English), beIN Sports en Español (U.S. - Spanish), beIN Sports (Canada), Sky Sports 5/HD (U.K.), Canal+ Liga/HD, GOL T, C+ Liga Multi, Canal+ Yomvi (Spain)
Online: beIN Sports CONNECT (U.S. & Canada), Sky Go (U.K.), Gol Stadium (Spain)
Source SBNation.com - All Posts http://ift.tt/1xG1XoY
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