MADRID (Interstat) — Atlético Madrid looks to rebound from a rare defeat when it hosts Valencia in a pivotal La Liga clash at the Metropolitano Stadium on Saturday.

Diego Simeone’s side, which stunned Real Madrid 5-2 in September, saw a strong run of form halted last week in a 1-0 loss at Athletic Bilbao. That followed a 3-1 defeat at Barcelona on Dec. 2. Despite those setbacks, Atlético remains a formidable force at home, having won four of its last five domestic matches in front of its supporters, including convincing victories over Sevilla and Real Betis.

Valencia arrives in the capital seeking consistency. Managed by Rubén Baraja, the team is unbeaten in its last four matches across all competitions but has drawn three of them, including a 1-1 result against Sevilla on Dec. 7. A pattern of stalemates has defined much of Valencia’s season, with five draws in its last eight league outings. Its last away win in La Liga was a 1-0 victory at Levante on Nov. 21.

The historical rivalry adds intrigue. Atlético’s potent attack, which has scored multiple goals in six of its last ten games, will test a Valencia defense that has proven stubborn but prone to lapses, as seen in a 4-0 loss at Real Madrid on Nov. 1.

According to the Interstat game simulator, this contest is projected to end in a 1-1 draw, reflecting both teams’ recent tendencies. A point would likely be viewed more favorably by Valencia, which has struggled for wins on the road.

The match carries weight for the European qualification picture. Atlético will aim to keep pace with the league’s top tier, while Valencia looks to climb into the conversation.

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Atlético Madrid: Visits Girona on Dec. 21. Valencia: Hosts Mallorca on Dec. 19.