 |
|
Spain: Primera Liga Preview- Barcelona v Valencia [Wed Sep 21st, 2005]
A significant stutter at the Vicente Calderon last weekend shifts some (and only some) of the focus from Real Madrid’s catastrophic start to Barcelona’s defence of their crown.
BACKGROUND
Frank Rijkaard appeared relatively unconcerned with the 2-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid, in contrast to the chuffed Carlos Bianchi. But now only a few days later he would probably have welcomed pretty much any Liga outfit to Catalonia more than Valencia. Quique Flores’ team have been a tad inconsistent but, unlike their esteemed hosts, remain unbeaten.
Goals, Goals And More Goals
This fixture, similarly to Barca – Atletico, has a firecracker reputation that’s been acquired over the years due to high scoring draws, completely one sided maulings and extra-terrestrial stunning goals from the likes of Gaizka Mendieta and Rivaldo.
Whether both sides, given their current form and the earliness of the campaign, will go at each other bull-at-a-gate style remains open to question, as solid starts to the season could turn sour with a moments rashness or lack of concentration.
Face Mask? No Problemo
Pablo Aimar’s mother was probably the most aggrieved when the little Che magician copped a corker on his nose – its not the first time Aimar has received substantial facial treatments after ugly accidental clashes.
However all is well and the face mask will be donned, Pippo Inzaghi style, as the playmaker is set to start. But there are problems elsewhere. The defence is an area that clearly requires tightening - a new centre-back to support first choice duo Marchena (who could move up to midfield in the absence of suspended Baraja and the injured Edu) and Ayala would have been sensible, while right back Miguel has admitted his defensive limitations.
Also, Patrick Kluivert returns to Camp Nou for the first time since his ill-fated departure to Newcastle, but has already spoken of his bench frustrations.
All Smiles In Camp Utopia?
It appeared to be an alpha/omega scenario as Real embarked on what has been a pretty disastrous start to the season, while Barcelona looked to have everything under control.
Both Ronaldinho and Frank Rijkaard’s much-vaunted contract renewals have hit the headlines – this is a happy camp, no? The defeat to Atletico has highlighted that niggling problems are evident.
The Dutchman has already stated he would like more from Ronaldinho, while the team as a whole has yet to really click into gear. Defeat, or even an unconvincing draw, against Valencia and whatever dissatisfaction there is will continue to fester.
At the moment, Los Merengues’ performances are disguising the ailments of their competitors.
TEAM NEWS
Barcelona: With only a few days since the defeat, Rijkaard should bring in some new faces to the starting eleven, such as the duo of Belletti and Iniesta down the right side. Also, van Bommel could start, with Deco the most likely to be sacrificed. Henrik Larsson will also be knocking on the first team door.
Valencia: Baraja’s dismissal against Depor and no obvious holding midfield replacement causes a headache. Hugo Viana could re-surface from his Ches invisibility, though Carlos Marchena is most likely so step up from defence. Miguel may be sacrificed for the more defensively astute Caneira or Albiol, given Ronaldinho will be occupying that area. Santi Canizares’ return from injury is a timely boost in goal.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Ronaldinho: He had a slow(ish) start to last season after a mesmerizing debut term, but soon found his feet and the same will surely happen this time. Class is permanent as they say, and he has more than most. The big games and pressure situations fire up Ronnie.
Roberto Ayala: The custodian could do with a little more help at the back, plus greater protection from midfield if the Ches defence is to be its tough old self this season. Four goals conceded in the last two matches isn’t great when your heading to Camp Nou, and the record will certainly irritate the palate of the Argentine defensive lynchpin.
PROBABLE TEAMS
Barcelona: (4-3-3): Valdez, Belletti, Puyol, Edmilson, van Bronckhorst, Xavi, Marquez, Deco/van Bommel, Giuly/Iniesta, Ronaldinho, Eto’o
Subs: Jorquera, Oleguer, Sylvinho, Ezquerro, Larsson
Valencia: (4-2-3-1): Canizares, Miguel/Albiol, Ayala, Navarro/Caneira, Aurelio, Marchena, Albelda, Rufete, Aimar, Vicente, Villa
Subs: Mora, Moretti, Viana, Angulo, Kluivert
John Rowlands
News headlines from around the world.