Valencia’s month from hell begins

As we enter February, the shortest month of the year (let me be the first to remind you that this year February has 29 days), Valencia’s coaching staff must think this is some kind of sick joke. 8 games in 29 days. It’s been done before, of course. But not quite like this. To start the month, Valencia host Barcelona at the Mestalla in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey. It’s a treat for the fans, and the club have a real chance of winning. That being said, it’s the first of three times Valencia will play against Barcelona in February. The Non-Barça La Liga matches? They include Atlético Madrid, Sevilla, and Sporting Gíjon.

Beyond that, those able to use the transitive property with their imaginations (looking at you, Andy Gray) will be happy to see Valencia square off for 180+ minutes in the Europa League with Stoke City, visiting the Britannia on what will likely be a cold Thursday night.

Valencia have done remarkably well so far, though were unlucky to get knocked out of the Champions League. They’re 5 points clear of securing a 2012-13 Champions League spot in La Liga, however, nothing is certain with Espanyol, Athletic Bilbao, Atlético Madrid, and Malaga challenging for third and fourth place. Think Valencia will pull through? [Schedule below]