Real Madrid No2 Aitor Karanka knows today's clash with Valencia is crucial in the title battle.

Barcelona, after their victory at Real Zaragoza, are now three points behind Real Madrid.

Karanka remarked: "We have to win tomorrow and show just how strong we are at home. Most of the squad is active and we've reached this far thanks to its efforts.

"We've topped the table most of the season thanks to the job we're doing and everything we are achieving. We must continue thinking the most imminent game is most important and focus on ourselves, which has been working for us till now."