Preview: Real, Atletico to face tough rivals in La Liga before international break

MADRID, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- The ninth round of matches in La Liga kicks off on Friday to end an intense period before the second international break of the season.

Nearly every team in La Liga, especially those playing in European competitions, will welcome the rest after a period that has seen them play seven games in less than four weeks.

League leaders FC Barcelona has a difficult visit to play Alaves o