Celta Vigo vs Atletico de Madrid preview - Atleti just after a win

Posted Saturday, March 08, 2014 by PA

Atletico Madrid striker Adrian Lopez claims securing victory is all that matters for his team at Celta Vigo this weekend.

The title challengers are looking for their first win in three Primera Division games as they head to Balaidos.

Los Rojiblancos fought out a fiery 2-2 draw with rivals Real Madrid last week having been beaten by Osasuna in their previous game.

They remain just three points off the top of the table but are without key trio Diego Costa, Diego Godin and Arda Turan through suspension this weekend.

Lopez told a press conference: "The work of the rest of the players will guarantee that the team will not suffer for any absences.

"The most important thing is that the players continue giving their all, as always.

"It's an important match because, at this point, three points are like a cup final.

"If we want to stay up there we need to win this match to take three points back home. Saturday's match is very important."

Celta Vigo midfielder Alex Lopez, however, believes Atletico could be there for the taking.

He said: "We will try and take advantage of the situation they will be in, because they have just played a derby, they have players suspended, and their players have been on international duty this week.

"I hope we can play to our strengths. I think we can get a good result if everyone gives 120 per cent, even though we know how difficult it will be.

"We haven't lost at home for a while, and the key to winning the game is keeping a higher level of intensity than Atletico."