20 March 2014 - Mestalla Stadium, Valencia, Spain
The journey to Valencia for the Europa League Round of 16 second leg carried with it the weight of history and the promise of European progression. The 1-1 first leg result with its crucial away goal had provided hope, but the Mestalla Stadium was one of European football's most intimidating venues, and Valencia's quality on home soil would test every aspect of Utrecht's development as a team capable of competing at the continent's highest level.
The week between the two legs had been filled with tactical refinement and mental preparation, with the coaching staff working to ensure readiness for the different challenges that away fixtures at elite venues presented. The Mestalla's capacity of 55,000 and passionate supporters would create an atmosphere unlike anything experienced during their European journey.
