Real Zaragoza sit just outside the relegation zone after the narrow defeat to Barcelona and they desperately need a victory in order to ease their relegation worries. Valencia, on the other hand, aim to return to winning ways following the Champions League exit at the hands of Schalke, so we should see a very interesting game at La Romareda.

Zaragoza in for a difficult task

Real Zaragoza have been in and out of the relegation zone from the very start of the season, with the pressure of expectations proving to be a big problems for Javier Aguirre’s side. With players like Ponzio, Jarosik, Diogo and Edmilson in the side, Zaragoza clearly have a lot of potential, but the big problem is that this side rarely exhibits that on the pitch. They have found in hard with having to play every game as if it was a final, so it is just once in every four or five games that we do see Zaragoza playing as they are expected to. The game against wounded Valencia comes at a very bad time for the hosts as they have got to attack in an attempt to achieve a valuable win, but they have to be wary of the opponent’s lethal counterattacks. Team’s home record this season is not the one that can strike fear into sides visiting La Romareda, that’s for sure.

Midfielder Said Boutahar is a doubt with a thigh injury, while Leo Franco is not yet ready to return. Florent Sinama-Pongolle should be fit to play despite picking up an injury in training this week.

Unlucky exit from the Champions League

Valencia enter this game low on confidence after missing a great chance to make it to the Champions League quarter-finals, although the players are very motivated to prove everyone they deserved to eliminate Schalke. Los Che played well in both legs against Schalke but conceded a couple of goals completely against the run of play, while being the victims of some shocking refereeing decisions. Nevertheless, Unai Emery’s side can now fully focus on their league campaign and try to cement the 3rd place in the standings, which guarantees a place in next year’s Champions League group stages. Unlike their opponents, los Che are under no pressure at the moment, seeing that they have already secured Champions League football and that could give them the upper hand at La Romareda. Their lethal counterattacks are the main reason behind the amazing away record, 8-2-3, so I definitely believe los Che can bring all three points from Zaragoza.

Unai Emery has no fresh injury worries, although Miguel and Chori Dominguez are unlikely to feature.

Verdict

Zaragoza are under big pressure at the moment and they will have to attack Valencia, which is likely to come back to haunt them. Los Che are the best counterattacking side in Spain and this match will prove that. My advice is to back Valencia on level ball handicap.

Our prediction: Valencia to win at 0:0 Asian handicap

Odds: 1.76 (19/25)

Bookmaker: 188BET