Barcelona will have an opportunity to strengthen their early grip on La Liga when they travel to Valencia on Sunday, after Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid both suffered damaging defeats in Matchday 4.
Real Madrid’s perfect start to the season came to an abrupt halt on Friday after Real Betis claimed a 1-0 victory in Seville, handing Jose Mourinho’s side their first league defeat of the campaign.
Troy Parrott struck the decisive goal in the 81st minute before Betis goalkeeper Alvaro Valles denied Kylian Mbappe from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time.
Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini had warned before the game that his side would not be intimidated by Madrid.
“They are a great team, but we are confident we can play our game, especially on home soil and with the support of our fans,” Pellegrini said.
Atletico Madrid endured an even tougher afternoon on Saturday, going down 3-0 to Athletic Club at San Mamés.
Diego Simeone had anticipated a difficult trip to Bilbao, pointing to Athletic’s intensity and the influence of their home crowd.
“Every time we play in Bilbao we know how difficult it is, a strong rival at home with their people,” Simeone said ahead of the match.
The two results leave Barcelona with a chance to capitalize when they face Valencia at Mestalla on Sunday.
Hansi Flick’s side head into the clash knowing Mestalla has traditionally been one of the more demanding away grounds in Spanish football.
“I am really looking forward to the match. I know that in Valencia it is always difficult. It will be a tough game,” Flick said.
The match kicks off at 5.15pm East African Time.
Elsewhere on Sunday, Alaves host Osasuna and Malaga face Levante before Espanyol take on Sevilla later in the evening.
Getafe face Celta Vigo on Monday, while Elche host Real Sociedad in the final fixture of the matchday.
With Real Madrid and Atletico already dropping points, Barcelona now have the clearest opportunity to make Matchday 4 count in the early La Liga title race.
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