Key Highlights
- Villarreal CF went four games without a win before facing Valencia CF.
- Calavera emphasizes the importance of commitment and dedication in playing at Mestalla.
- The team is focused on improving set pieces to avoid conceding goals from corners and free kicks.
- Injuries to Ugrinic and Foulquier are being managed with treatment phases.
Valencia CF: Preparing for a Regional Derby
The upcoming fixture between Valencia CF and Villarreal CF holds significant weight for the former, especially considering their recent form. According to Javi Calavera, Valencia CF’s head coach, his team has not been performing at their best recently, with Villarreal CF going four games without a win.
“The magnitude of the opponents they haven’t managed to beat speaks to the level of the team,” Calavera stated. “They’re a team immersed in the Champions League, and we know the high demands of tomorrow’s match; they have a great squad.”
The Emotion of a Regional Derby
Calavera sees this as more than just another match—it is an opportunity for his players to play at Mestalla. “The emotion of a regional derby is something special,” he said. “You’re playing in front of your fans, and you have to give them your best. We know that when we give them our best at Mestalla, they give us back twice as much, and that’s the best thing about this fixture.”
For the coach, this match is a source of pride for both him and his squad. “There’s no worry or lack of worry,” Calavera added. “It all starts with us, with our fans. The more you give, the more you receive back. It all starts with us.”
Improving on Set Pieces
Calavera acknowledges that set pieces have been a weak point for his team. He points to two specific situations against Deportivo Alavés where Villarreal CF created danger: one involving a ball in near the post and another from a free kick higher up, where they managed to overload positions and create opportunities.
“We have to increase our effectiveness from set pieces,” Calavera emphasized. “When a team shoots, you have to have the response from the goalkeeper, who was at his best and ensured we didn’t concede a single goal from set pieces. We’re working toward that.”
Injuries and Team Dynamics
The coach also addressed the current injury situation within his squad. He mentioned Ugrinic’s ongoing knee issues, noting they are in a new phase of treatment and expect him to be back soon. Similarly, Foulquier faced discomfort before the Girona game but is now better after recent treatment.
“When you have injuries in the squad, you have to focus on getting the most out of the players you have,” Calavera said. “That’s part of the process we’re going through right now.”
Returning to Mestalla
The coach highlighted the importance of returning to the home ground after a tough away fixture against Real Oviedo. He believes that while results are important, it is equally crucial to maintain a strong mentality and commitment towards improving their play.
“We haven’t forgotten the game against Real Oviedo,” Calavera said. “For me, for the squad, and for everyone, it’s a source of pride to represent the fans. We look at ourselves and our goal is to achieve our best level.”
Conclusion
The upcoming match between Valencia CF and Villarreal CF is crucial not just from a tactical perspective but also in terms of maintaining team spirit and fan support. Calavera’s emphasis on commitment, dedication, and the importance of playing at Mestalla highlights the significance of this regional derby for both teams. With a focus on improving their set pieces and managing injuries effectively, Valencia CF looks to respond positively against Villarreal CF.
