Valencia vs Werder Bremen Match Preview
Valencia look for a chance at redemption when they host Werder Bremen at the Mestalla Stadium. These two sides last met in 2004/04 UEFA Champions League where Bremen cruised on aggregate 4-1.
Los Che are frustrated with recent play and really need a result at home. Valencia need a very strong showing from the home fans and David Villa as well. Joaquin is Valencia's leading scorer in the Europa League. Villa ranks 4th in goal attempts with 22. Midfielder Ever Banega recognized that the team must remain focused and aware. Claiming that Bremen were "tough opponents with a lot of quality." The home side will need strong solid play in the middle of the pitch as well as in the back. This side has a tendency to get the referee's attention recording 3 red and 78 yellow cards in league play this season. If Bremen begins to frustrate Los Che theres no telling what kind of reckless challenges you may see on the field.
Manager Klaus Allofs said Bremen's players need to step up their play in the coming weeks. "Certainly our players have to deal with the burden of three competitions and national team appearances. But still we cannot make things as easy for our opponents as today. We are in a phase in which we can move up to the fifth place. I wish we had more resolution." Bremen came from behind in league play this weekend to edge out a draw against Stuttgart. The Germans got good news as Pasanen returned to training this week. Also, Philip Bargfrede and Clemens Fritz look to be getting close to a return. Bremen possess a very deadly striker up front in Claudio Pizarro. He is the top scorer in the Europa League with 8 goals. Pizzaro is part of the reason this German side is the highest scoring team in the Europa League this season. Look for Bremen to display their dominance early and irritate the struggling Spanish side.
