MADRID, Dec 12 (AFP): Real must do without 164 million euros worth of talent for Saturday's crucial title duel at Valencia as they bid to slice Barcelona's five-point lead at the top.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the most expensive player in history at 94 million euros, misses out through suspension following his red card for violent conduct against Almeria last weekend while Brazilian Kaka, a 70 million euro signing from AC Milan, is also absent with a sports hernia injury.
"Cristiano is a key player for us and creates a lot of danger," said Xabi Alonso. "However, we intend to be the same without Cristiano. We have to try and be the same team irrespective of who is playing."
Real will certainly miss Ronaldo's goals - he has scored 12 goals in 11 games in all competitions - so Madrid will have to look to their other key performers at the Mestalla Stadium.
Real are three points ahead of third-placed Valencia who have lost just once in the league and are unbeaten at home.
Barcelona are currently five points ahead at the summit - admittedly having played one game more - so this is a pivotal match for Real to win or risk the champions extending their lead further.
Ronaldo, Kaka absent as Valencia test Real title mettle
FE Team | Published: December 13, 2009 00:00:00 | Updated: February 01, 2018 00:00:00
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