Portuguese outfit Maritimo host the first leg at their Estádio dos Barreiros, having made their last UEFA Cup appearance in 2004/05. However, their European campaign that season ended rather immediately after being eliminated on penalties against Glasgow Rangers. Maritimo qualified through to this season’s competition after finishing a credible 5th in their domestic league. The Brazilian contingent of Maritimo will be on display against Valencia and will hope to produce an identical result as they did against Leeds back in 2001/02.
Standout Player: Bruno
Inspect the globe the past twelve months and you wouldn’t find many who have had as turbulent and disorderly season as that of Valencia. The Copa del Rey triumph masked a hideous season in an endless number of ways, be it financial, managerial or ownership. Five have entered and departed the managerial doors at Valencia in a matter of one season, but vitally the irreplaceable David Villa has committed his future to the club and any success will depend on his performances. Stability is the essence and keeping attention strictly on the pitch will be a massive boost to manager Unai Emery.
The UEFA Cup is a happy hunting ground for Valencia as it a competition which has previously bared medals and success. Rafa Benitez memorably guided the Spaniards to cup victory back in 2004 and with a current calibre of players that would be fit to grace the Champions League, witnessing them walk out in Istanbul’s final in May would not be a surprise. A long-term injury to David Silva remains a worry for Emery, but the ammunition provided from David Villa will see them through comfortably.
Standout Player: David Villa
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The full UEFA Cup First Round fixture list can be found here.
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