Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso is confident they can handle Cristiano Ronaldo's absence for their clash with Valencia.

Ronaldo is suspended after his red card against Almeria last week.

"Cristiano is a decisive player. He creates danger everytime he gets the ball," said Xabi. "But now we must try to be the same without Cristiano. The approach must be the same regardless of who plays.

"The match is crucial for both teams. We have many absences, but must learn to live with them."