Valencia’s return to Stoke revives distant memories of European nights | OneFootball

Valencia visit Stoke City today for a pre-season test at the Bet365 Stadium, their fifth outing under Carlos Corberán. According to Superdeporte, the friendly arrives as the squad continue searching for rhythm before the campaign begins, and the venue inevitably invites a look back.

In February 2012, Unai Emery’s Valencia travelled to the same ground for the first leg of the Europa League round of 32. Stoke were a notoriously awkward opponent, built on direct play, physical strength and Rory Delap’s endless long throws.

After withstanding the home side’s early surge, Valencia grew into the tie and struck through a superb Mehmet Topal effort from the edge of the area for a 1-0 win. The result also ended a long wait for a Valencia victory on English soil.

The return at Mestalla brought few frills. Valencia managed their lead and sealed progression with another 1-0, Jonas finishing after a neat Pablo Hernández pass, while Stoke struggled once their physical game lost its bite.

That win carried Emery’s team into the last 16 and extended a spell when Valencia were fixtures in Europe. Today’s trip carries a different significance, yet it recalls a time many supporters still view with fond nostalgia.

Source: Superdeporte