Mestalla: Home of Valencia(credit:
Wikipedia)
Villarreal defender Carlos Marchena admits today’s showdown with Valencia will have a huge impact on the race for a top-three finish.
With top-two Barcelona and Real Madrid out of touch, it is Valencia who currently occupy the third and final spot that will guarantee a place in next season’s Champions League.
Villarreal, meanwhile, are three points back in the only berth that would secure a place in the qualifying stages for Europe’s premier club competition, but they would move ahead of their hosts on goal difference if they win this one
And Marchena said: “Both teams are playing for a lot because third place is there.
“Valencia only have a three-point advantage and if we have a good game we will be right there with them.”
He added: “We`re going to arrive a little tired, but very motivated after the big (midweek) win against Twente (in the Europa League).
“One thing could cancel out the other and we hope it`s the positive aspect that comes through.”
While Villarreal enter this game on the back of a 5-1 hammering of FC Twente in Europe, Valencia will also be full of confidence after wrapping up a 4-2 La Liga win at Getafe last time out.
Watch Valencia v Villarreal live at 365, kicking off at 20.00 GMT.