It is perhaps a strange reversal of the norm, seeing a team sideline the league to focus on the Cup, but this has been hitherto a rather strange season for Madrid and Paddy Power price them at 1.33 (3/10) to take a first leg lead to Mestalla next week.
A resurgent Valencia meanwhile with seven wins in their last eight games under new manager Ernesto Valverde can be backed at 8/1 (9.00) with the draw offered at 4/1 (5.00).Yet logic (if not necessarily the statistics) dictates that this is a game Madrid will win, given the significance of the cup to them as well as their strength at home - it is 32 games since they last lost at the Bernabeu.
With a rampant Ronaldo restored to the starting lineup after his weekend suspension expect Los Blancos to make a quick start.
The price therefore of 5/6 (1.83) for Madrid half-time/full-time appeals and it is a bet that has paid out seven times this season in games that Jose Mourinho's men have played against La Liga opposition at home.
For some higher odds back Madrid -2 in the handicap market at 2/1(3.00) with this bet also paying out in seven of the champions' home fixtures this season.
 |
BET |
OF THE |
DAY |
| BEST BET |
VALUE BET |
| Madrid half time/full time at 5/6 (1.83) with Paddy Power |
Madrid -2 handicap at 2/1 (3.00) with Paddy Power |
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Phil Kitromilides is a sports broadcaster working on TV in Madrid. You can also follow Phil on Twitter.