This fixture promises goals at both ends, given the defensive vulnerabilities of both teams and their attacking tendencies. Valencia’s struggles in defence have been evident, conceding consistently both home and away.

However, at the Estadio de Mestalla, they’ve showcased offensive resilience, failing to score in just 2 home games this season. They’ve kept clean sheets against only Girona and Osasuna, two of the league’s weakest away attacks. Against Real Madrid, who are averaging 1.89 goals per game, Valencia’s defence will face a stern test.

Real Madrid’s backline has shown susceptibility too, conceding one goal per game on average in La Liga and leaking goals in all their European away games this season. Key injuries to Eder Militão and Dani Carvajal exacerbate their defensive fragility, making BTTS likely here.

10 of the last 11 meetings at the Mestalla have seen both teams find the net, emphasising the likelihood of another open contest as Valencia and Madrid pursue vital points for differing ambitions.

This market reflects the attacking prowess of Real Madrid and Valencia’s inability to completely nullify their opposition. While Valencia’s matches average just 2.47 goals per game, Real Madrid’s games are significantly higher at 3.28.

Real Madrid’s attacking dominance has resulted in 3+ goals being scored in 12 of their last 14 matches across all competitions. With Valencia likely to contribute at least one goal at home, and Real’s offensive firepower, this market appears likely.

Both games between these teams last season exceeded this line, producing 4 and 6 goals.

Valencia rank third in average corners per game in La Liga (5.88), their numbers increase at home to an impressive 7.38 per game, having surpassed 5 corners in 6 of their 8 home matches this season.

Real Madrid’s defence, despite its reputation, has proven vulnerable in this department. They concede an average of 4.48 corners per game, which increases to 4.89 on the road.

In fact, Los Blancos have allowed 4+ corners in 7 of their 9 La Liga away games, and 5+ in 6 of those matches. With these trends aligning, Valencia hitting the over 3.5 corner mark is excellent value.

Valencia are more prone to picking up cards at home, averaging 2.75 per game at the Mestalla, compared to their 2.29 league average. Notably, they’ve received 2+ cards in every home match this season. Real Madrid’s offensive intensity forces opponents into card-worthy challenges.

Valencia’s physical style, coupled with Madrid’s attacking dynamism, increases the chances of bookings. Opponents have received 2+ cards in each of Madrid’s last 9 league games and 7 consecutive away fixtures.

Furthermore, Valencia have recorded at least 2 cards in their last 6 head-to-heads with Los Blancos, suggesting a continuation of this trend.

Vinícius Júnior remains a key figure for Real Madrid, consistently delivering when it matters most. Despite missing part of the season through injury, he has been Madrid’s top contributor with 13 goal involvements (8 goals, 5 assists).

His recent form is equally impressive, scoring in his last 2 starts and netting 6 times in his previous 5. Over this period, he’s also provided 3 assists, highlighting his dual-threat capability. Adding to his impressive résumé, Vinícius has scored 8 goals in his last 6 league meetings against Valencia, making him a standout pick to contribute once again.

Jude Bellingham continues to dominate games for Real Madrid with his blend of technical skill and attacking brilliance. His ability to dictate play and drive forward frequently makes him a target for opposition defenders.

Bellingham draws an average of 2.05 fouls per game, second only to Vinícius in Madrid’s squad. This trend has been consistent, with the Englishman winning 2 or more fouls in 7 of his last 8 matches. Expect him to attract challenges again as he orchestrates Madrid’s midfield.

Dimitri Foulquier faces a daunting challenge in containing Vinícius Júnior, one of the most dangerous wingers in world football. Foulquier has committed 2 fouls in each of his last 2 matches and in 3 of his last 4 games against Real Madrid.

With Vinícius drawing an average of 2.55 fouls per game, Foulquier is likely to rack up fouls again as he contends with the Brazilian’s relentless pace and trickery.

While there is limited value in Foulquier’s price to commit 2+ fouls, 2.88 represents strong odds for the 31-year-old to sin 3+ times here.

Deployed in a central striker role, Kylian Mbappé has continued to showcase his lethal finishing and ability to test goalkeepers. Despite adjusting to a new role, Mbappé has delivered 13 goals and 3 assists this season, averaging 2.22 shots on target per game.

He has hit the target at least twice in each of his last 5 matches and in 9 of his last 11. With Madrid’s attacking depth creating opportunities, Mbappé’s consistent ability to threaten the goal makes this selection highly reliable.