Real Madrid Vs Valencia Pre-match Preview

It's a classic David vs. Goliath matchup at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, November 1st, 2025. League-leading Real Madrid, fresh from a euphoric El Clásico victory, host a Valencia side mired in the relegation zone. But as a shocking result from last season proves, in football, the script can be ripped up at any moment.

The tale of the tape couldn't be more different for these two historic clubs. The table below highlights the stark reality of their current campaigns

Real Madrid is flying high. Their 2-1 victory over Barcelona last weekend was a statement win, powered by goals from Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham, and has opened up a five-point gap at the summit. The team is oozing confidence, and the atmosphere at the renovated Bernabéu is a formidable weapon.

Valencia, in contrast, are in crisis. A dismal run of form has seen them slip into the bottom three, and despite a 5-0 Copa del Rey win over a lower-league side, their league performances have been plagued by late lapses and an inability to score on the road.

Injuries will force both managers, Xabi Alonso and Carlos Corberan, into some tactical calculations.

• Real Madrid's Defensive Headaches: Los Blancos face a defensive crisis. Captain Dani Carvajal is out with a new injury, joining Antonio Rüdiger and the doubtful David Alaba on the sidelines. Backup keeper Andriy Lunin is also suspended. This likely means a start for Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back, and Alonso may rotate elsewhere with a crucial Champions League tie against Liverpool on the horizon.

• Valencia's Absences: The visitors have their own problems. Key forwards Hugo Duro and Lucas Beltran are doubts, while several others including Mouctar Diakhaby are ruled out. Their attack will likely rely on Arnaut Danjuma, who has scored a third of their goals this season.

Expected Lineups:

• Real Madrid (4-3-3): Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Militao, Huijsen, Garcia; Camavinga, Bellingham, Guler; Rodrygo, Mbappé, Vinicius Jr.

• Valencia (4-4-2): Agirrezabala; Correia, Tarrega, Copete, Gaya; Rioja, Guerra, Pepelu, Lopez; Danjuma, Duro.

While the present seems one-sided, history adds a fascinating layer of intrigue. The last time these two met at the Bernabéu, in April 2025, Valencia pulled off a stunning 2-1 heist. After a missed penalty by Vinicius Jr., Valencia scored a late winner to steal all three points—a result that damaged Madrid's title chase and helped Valencia survive relegation. This memory will undoubtedly fuel the home side's desire for revenge.

The match will be decided in individual duels across the pitch:

• Vinicius Jr. vs. Thierry Correia: The Brazilian winger, whose relationship with Alonso is reportedly strained, will be keen to dominate his direct opponent.

• Kylian Mbappé vs. Cesar Tarrega: The league's top scorer (11 goals) is in devastating form and will test Valencia's young defender for all 90 minutes.

• Dean Huijsen vs. Arnaut Danjuma: With Madrid's defense depleted, the returning Huijsen must be alert to contain the Dutch striker, Valencia's main attacking threat.

All logic points towards a comfortable Real Madrid victory. Their firepower, home advantage, and dominant form are too much for a struggling Valencia side. However, Valencia's shock win last season and the potential for Madrid to be distracted by their upcoming European fixture offer a glimmer of hope for the visitors.

• Final Score Prediction: Real Madrid 3 - 0 Valencia. Madrid's quality should overwhelm Valencia, with Mbappé adding to his tally.

• Alternative Scoreline: Real Madrid 3 - 1 Valencia. A consolatory goal for Valencia isn't out of the question, but it won't be enough.

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