Valencia approach the last Liga BBVA fixture of the season with high hopes

The valuable point picked up by Valencia CF following their 1-1 draw against RC Celta on matchday 37 of the Liga BBVA means the Mestalla outfit’s chances of securing third place in the division are still very much alive heading into the final game of the season. Meanwhile, the Galicians have already shored up safety and sit mid-table.

Pablo Hernández opening the scoring on a day of simultaneous kick-offs with a goal on the eight-minute mark. The Chilean midfielder put Celta in front with a header, however, once they had established their lead, the away side’s tempo dropped significantly and los Che began to bear down on Sergio Álvarez’s goal. There was a symphony of Valencia chances before the half-time whistle, with Dani Parejo and Paco Alcácer trying their luck time after time, while José Luis Gayà also put in a splendid performance.

The half time break renewed both teams spirits, and both sets of players came out with the intention of creating more chances on the Mestalla pitch. Valencia almost extended their narrow lead on three occasions, but a lack of precision denied Eduardo Berizzo’s men from getting another goal. Valencia took advantage of the visitors’ wastefulness in front of goal in the second half by drawing level through Nicolás Otamendi. The Argentine forward showed great awarenss to latch onto a poor Sergio Álvarez parry following a direct free kick to make it 1-1 and ensure that the points were shared.