Real Madrid face tough match against Valencia

Madrid, April 7 (IANS) Real Madrid face what on paper at least looks like one of their toughest tests between now and the end of the season when they entertain Valencia in the Spanish Primera Liga at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium Sunday night.

Valencia are currently third in the Primera Liga table, although it should be pointed out that they are also 30 points behind the league leaders Madrid.

Unai Emery's side will have recovered some confidence Thursday night after a 4-0 win at home over AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League. The win took Valencia into the semi-finals of the competition and will now face fellow Spaniards, Atletico Madrid for a place in the final, Xinhua reported.

Valencia with this win will get some confidence back after taking just one point from their last three games in the league.

Madrid should have no tiredness issues as Jose Mourinho's side cruised into the semi-finals of the Champions League with a 5-2 victory over APOEL FC at the Bernabeu.

Mourinho will welcome midfielder Sami Khedira back into the starting 11 after an injury problem, although Lassana Diarra is still out and Sergio Ramos is suspended.

Ramos will be replaced by youngster Rafael Varene, while Angel De Maria is in line for a return to the starting 11 after his hamstring problems.

Meanwhile Karim Benzema will also return to the attack after being rested in midweek and will partner Cristiano Ronaldo, who continues his quest to end the season as Spain's top scorer.