Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano Preview

What we know

Real Madrid is on a strong run, unbeaten in their last six matches against Rayo Vallecano, although they have only secured two wins in that stretch following a goalless draw in November. Currently, Real Madrid ranks 2nd in La Liga, showcasing a solid performance with 16 wins, 3 draws, and just 2 losses this season. Rayo Vallecano, on the other hand, is struggling despite managing to get three away victories this season, placing them 16th.

Availability

Injuries

Rayo Vallecano
- Iván Balliu: Physical discomfort
- Sergio Camello: Ankle injury
- Andrei Rațiu: Injury details not specified
Real Madrid
- Brahim Diaz: Injury details not specified
- Antonio Rudiger: Injury details not specified
- Ferland Mendy: Injury details not specified
- Rodrygo: Injury details not specified
- Trent Alexander-Arnold: Injury details not specified
- Eder Militao: Injury details not specified
- Franco Mastantuono: Injury details not specified

Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid: Courtois, Alexander-Arnold, Militao, Huijsen, Carreras, Camavinga, Güler, Bellingham, Valverde, Vinicius, Mbappé (source)
Rayo Vallecano: Augusto Batalla, Andrei Ratiu, Florian Lejeune, Nobel Mendy, Pep Chavarria, Unai Lopez, Pathe Ciss, Jorge de Frutos, Isi (source)

Tactical note

Real Madrid has been prevalent at home, winning at both half time and full time in 9 of their last 10 home matches against Rayo Vallecano in all competitions. Their attacking prowess demonstrated by a positive goal difference of +28 underlines their ability to dominate matches.

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