I think their assumption was Valverde is the better climber, but apparently the wind was a major factor, and they rode hard to keep Canc away. I guess Valverde wasn't as fresh as he generally aims to be and Stybar's power told in the end.
Also riders aiming for a peak for Flanders and Roubaix are ahead of riders aiming for the Ardennes races. The results of this race reflect this, arguably.
I think their assumption was Valverde is the better climber, but apparently the wind was a major factor, and they rode hard to keep Canc away. I guess Valverde wasn't as fresh as he generally aims to be and Stybar's power told in the end.