Valencia recorded a vital 2-0 home victory over Athletic Bilbao to move away from the relegation zone and restore confidence ahead of hosting Real Madrid.
First half goals from Nani and Simone Zaza gave Los Che the victory to move them seven points clear of the relegation zone with that game in hand against Madrid scheduled for Wednesday.
"These three points give us much confidence for Wednesday's game but it'll be a very difficult match given our opponent," the coach told reporters after the match.
"We played well in the first-half, scoring early and our effectiveness in front of goal defined our game.
"With the second goal, we grew more into the game and after [Artiz] Aduriz's injury we were comfortable with an extra man.
"Zaza? It's important he finds the net – he scored and created good chances, which are always key for any attacker."
Athletic Club remain seventh amid continued poor away form – with only two victories in eleven matches on the road this campaign.
