Valencia can strengthen their grip on third place and pull seven points clear of their city rivals Levante with a win at Atletico Madrid.

But Atletico are pushing forward down the right wing, and Alves is forced into the first save of the night from Lopez, who glances Juanfran's volleyed cross towards goal.

Valencia know a win will put daylight between them and Levante, and they have started confidently here.

It's an even start here so far, each side feeling out the other at a packed Estadio Vicente Calderon.

KICK OFF.

The players have emerged from the tunnel and are exchanging pleasantries. That must mean we are just a couple of minutes away from kick-off at the Estadio Vicente Calderon.

ATLETICO: Courtois; Juanfran, Miranda, Godín, Filipe; Tiago, Gabi; Adrián, Diego, Arda Turan; Falcao /// VALENCIA: Alves; Miguel, Rami, V.Ruiz, Mathieu; Albelda, T.Costa; Pablo, Piatti, J. Alba; Soldado.

While they are unlikely to haul back the 16 points between themselves and Real Madrid, a win will put Valencia in a strong position to claim third place ahead of Levante. Lots to play for then!

But Valencia are in good form themselves, unbeaten in their last five games in all competitions. Although their wins have come in the Copa del Rey only.

Striker Falcao has scored five goals in those four games and, most impressively, Los Rojiblancos have yet to concede under Diego Simeone.

Atletico boss Diego Simeone has overseen three wins and a draw in his first four games since taking over from Gregorio Manzano - but this game against Valencia represents his first major test as coach.