Mestalla, the key to LaLiga
Mestalla
Despite Valencia's recent indifferent form, Mestalla is always a difficult ground to play at and in the past serves as a serious test for any title aspirant. When the home fans get behind their team, they are capable of creating a truly hostile environment which serves as a boost for the men in white.
Acid test
The rescheduled LaLiga game is a real acid test for Real Madrid as Rafa Benítez is well aware. His Madrid side drew there 2-2 there last season but it wasn't enough to save his position as first team coach. This year Real Madrid come into the game with a different dynamic and will look to consolidate their grip at the top of the league table.
A different Valencia awaits
The December version of Valencia is a different animal to the current side under Voro. The coach may use an attacking group of Munir, Orellana, Nani and Zaza (as was the case last weekend against Athletic in the convincing 2-0 win) and will have the Madrid rearguard on their toes from the off. Zidane himself has a key decision to make with the return of Gareth Bale. Will he revert to the BBC, as was employed by Benitez last year and the coach saw how his side went ahead twice but were pegged back by the home side. Madrid failed to control the game, drew the match and the Mestalla result was key in the club terminating his contract.
