Real Madrid Aim to Bounce Back Against Rayo Vallecano

Los Blancos Look to Recover After European Setback

Real Madrid travel to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday looking to respond after a disappointing Champions League defeat to Liverpool. Despite that loss, Madrid remain top of La Liga with 30 points, five ahead of Barcelona. Rayo sit 10th with 14 points from 11 matches.

The hosts come into this clash after a positive week in Europe. Rayo beat Lech Poznan 3-2 in the Conference League to keep their campaign alive. It was their third win in four matches across all competitions, although their last La Liga outing ended in a heavy 4-0 defeat at Villarreal.

Rayo’s home form has been inconsistent with only five points from four league matches in front of their fans. Facing the league leaders will be a major test for Inigo Perez’s side, who have struggled historically against Madrid. Rayo have beaten Los Blancos just seven times in 46 meetings.

Real Madrid’s Chance to Extend Lead

Real Madrid could extend their advantage over Barcelona to eight points before their rivals play later on Sunday. Xabi Alonso’s men have been dominant in Spain this season with 10 wins from 11 matches. They have also been strong away from home, earning 12 points from five away fixtures, the best record in the league.

Madrid’s recent domestic form has been excellent. They have beaten Villarreal, Getafe, Barcelona, and Valencia since their only league defeat to Atletico Madrid. However, tension around Vinicius Junior’s off-field behavior has been a distraction, and Alonso will want focus firmly on the pitch.

Team News and Expected Lineups

Rayo are missing Luiz Felipe and Abdul Mumin through injury, while Diego Mendez remains a doubt. Jorge de Frutos, Alemao, Pedro Diaz, and Andrei Ratiu are expected to return to the starting eleven. Alvaro Garcia will again lead the attack after scoring five goals this season.

For Real Madrid, Aurelien Tchouameni is out with a hamstring issue, while Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, and Franco Mastantuono are also sidelined. Trent Alexander-Arnold could start after returning from injury, which may allow Federico Valverde to move further forward. Rodrygo is likely to join Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe in attack.

Prediction

Rayo will make life difficult at home, but Real Madrid’s quality should be enough to secure the win. Alonso’s men will be determined to respond after midweek disappointment.

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Please note: this is only an analysis, and we take no responsibility for any bets placed by readers.