Atletico Madrid vs Valencia preview - Maduro wants three points

Posted Saturday, February 12, 2011 by PA

Atletico Madrid vs Valencia preview - Maduro wants three points Valencia utility man Hedwiges Maduro is hoping Los Che can marry attractive football with three points at Atletico Madrid.

Unai Emery's men are on a remarkable run of form in the Primera Division having won six and drawn one of their last seven games. Yet they still continue to attract criticism for their style of play.

Holland international Maduro, who missed Holland's 3-1 win over Austria on Wednesday night through illness, said: "The priority is winning, but we should do so with good football.

"That is why Atletico provide a good test for us in both respects. Saturday is another game and an important match.

"Atletico always have a good team, they are a dangerous and tough opponent. This is a game in which we have to show our quality."

Maduro, normally a central defender, has been employed in a midfield holding role in recent weeks and he is happy to carry on in the more advanced position.

"There are lots of central defenders in the squad at the moment," he added.

"The system we play doesn't matter. The team can play in a number of different ways. With the formation that we used against Hercules, we have more possession and pack the midfield."

Despite their hot streak, Valencia remain 17 points behind leaders Barcelona but 14 ahead of tomorrow's opponents.

Atletico come into the match desperately needing a victory with the pressure starting to mount on boss Quique Sanchez Flores.

The Rojiblancos have won one of their last six games and the former Valencia man is feeling the heat.

He said: "Football does not change. I have always worked under pressure but it is true that I am not getting the performances at the moment."