Things to look out for on Spain's matchday 8

0 Comment(s)Print E-mail Xinhua, October 13, 2017
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MADRID, Oct. 13 (Xinhua) -- The Liga Santander returns following the international break with a highly charged affair between Atletico Madrid and FC Barcelona in the Wanda Metropolitan Stadium. However, that is not the only game of the weekend and here are some things to keep an eye out for in Matchday 8 in Spain.

1. Real Madrid to continue away run in Getafe

Real Madrid' s troubles at home are well documented with just one win from four in front of their fans this season, but on the road it is a different matter with 12 consecutive victories away from Madrid.

Zinedine Zidane's men only have a short trip out of the capital on Saturday as they travel to face a Getafe side that has adapted well on their return to the top flight. Getafe have conceded just 7 goals in seven games and are a potent threat from set pieces.

With Zidane likely to rest players ahead of next week' s Champions League tie against Tottenham, it could be a chance for players such as Lucas Vazquez to shine, but they shouldn't take a tough Getafe for granted.

2. Alaves to keep it tight in Basque derby?

Gianni De Biasi enjoyed a successful debut as Alaves coach before the international break as his side won 2-0 away to Levante to claim their first points of the season.

The experienced Italian has a reputation for concentrating on a solid defense and he certainly did that a fortnight ago, packing his side's back line and playing two defensive midfielders against a side that looked to be tired and lacking in ideas.

Di Biassi's home debut sees his side entertain Real Sociedad in a local derby.

'La Real's fine start to the season has petered out to the defensive errors which have seen them concede at least 3 goals in each of their last five games, but as their 4-4 draw at home to Betis a fortnight ago showed, they can still score goals as well.

They will certainly create more than Levante did, but Di Biasi has also had an extra fortnight to work with his side. It should be interesting.

3. Betis and Valencia to measure each other's potential

It promises to be a fascinating game in Seville as Betis entertain Valencia in a game between two sides who have most improved on last season.

Betis are playing wonderful attacking football under coach Quique Setien, while Marcelino Garcia has added steel to his side, who are also starting to score goals. Both clubs are thinking of a return to Europe, this game could show how real their chances really are. Enditem

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