Barcelona vs Valencia preview - Tito targets response after Real loss

Posted Sunday, September 02, 2012 by PA

Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has backed his players to bounce back from their Supercopa disappointment by delivering their third league win of the season against Valencia on Sunday.

Barcelona have hit the ground running in the new Primera Division campaign, winning both of their matches so far and scoring seven goals in the process.

However, that momentum took a knock in midweek when they were edged out on away goals in the Supercopa by Real Madrid.

Despite that disappointment, Villanova said: "The squad has responded well.

"We all know that we have just started. We now have an important game at home, and we should try to go into this break with nine points."

The coach is aware that Valencia will provide a stern test, however.

"This is a team that will create danger in the space with their speed," he said. "They are also a very dangerous from set-pieces."

Barca full-back Dani Alves will undergo a late fitness test on a thigh injury, while captain Carles Puyol is also rated doubtful with a fractured cheekbone.

New signing Alex Song could make his debut in midfield following his recent move from Arsenal.

Valencia are still awaiting their first win in the league after back-to-back draws in their openers.

Valencia begin life without winger Pablo Hernandez, who completed a move to Premier League side Swansea on Friday.

Coach Manuel Pellegrino should however be able to call upon Fernando Gago and Jeremy Mathieu, who have both recovered from knocks.