Rayo Vallecano vs Barcelona: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Two teams in the top half will battle out after the International break

In their recent game on November 11, before the break, Rayo Vallecano suffered a 2-1 defeat at home against Girona FC. The solitary goal for Rayo Vallecano was scored by Alvaro Garcia. Despite their efforts, Rayo Vallecano couldn't secure the win and faced a narrow loss in front of their home crowd. The Little Thunderbolts have struggled to find much La Liga stability.

While Barcelona might have made real history last season as they got their hands on a first LaLiga crown since 2019, Xavis’s side have a major job on their hands if they are to keep hold of their Spanish title. In their recent home fixture, Barcelona secured a 2-1 victory against Deportivo Alaves. The sole contributor to Barcelona's goals in that match was Robert Lewandowski, who netted both of the team's goals against Deportivo Alaves.

Kick-Off:

Saturday, 25 November 2023 at 8:00 AM ET (6:30 PM IST)

Location: Estadio de Vallecas

Form:

Rayo Vallecano (in Laliga): D-W-D-D-L

Barcelona (in Laliga): D-W-L-W-W

Players to watch:

Alvaro Garcia (Rayo Vallecano)

Alvaro Garcia has four goals and one assist in the LaLiga for Rayo Vallecano. Garcia has been a key player for Rayo Vallecano this season, helping them to be in the top half of the table. He is a versatile winger who can play on either flank, and he is known for his pace, dribbling skills, and ability to create chances for his teammates.

Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona)

Lewandowski has significantly impacted Barcelona's performance, contributing seven goals and providing three assists, solidifying his pivotal role within the team. His ability to create goal-scoring opportunities and score goals have been instrumental in Barcelona's successes on the field, highlighting his crucial role in the team's attacking strategy.

Match facts:

• In their previous encounter on April 26th, Rayo Vallecano secured a surprising 2-1 victory while playing at their home stadium.
• Barcelona have recorded just a pair of wins from any of their last five showdowns away from the Nou Camp.
• Xavi’s side have registered just a single clean sheet from their previous five appearances across all formats.

Injury & Team News

Rayo Vallecano have reported a clean bill of health. Bagging a consolation strike against Girona earlier in the month and notching his fourth La Liga strike of the season, 31-year-old Alvaro Garcia will have a leading role to play here. Darwin Machis is suspended for this match after he received a red card, Trejo is set to miss this match.

In what is a devastating blow for Barcelona, it has been confirmed that midfield talisman Gavi is set to miss the remainder of the season after sustaining an ACL injury while away with Spain last week. The 19-year-old will be joined on the sidelines by fellow midfield star Frankie de Jong this weekend. Ter Stegen is set to miss this match with his return likely in early December.

Head to Head

Total Matches – 17

Real Vallecano wins – 3

Barcelona wins - 13

Draws – 1

Predicted Lineup:

Real Vallecano predicted lineup:

Dimitrievski; Ratiu, Mumin, Lejeune, Espino; Palazon, Valentin, Lopez, Garcia; Camello, Falcao

Barcelona predicted lineup:

Inaki Pena; Araujo, Kounde, Martinez, Canecelo; Gundogan, Pedri; Yamal, Lopez, Felix; Lewandowski

Match Prediction for Rayo Vallecano vs Barcelona:

Marking their return from November’s international break sat four points adrift in the title chase, Barcelona will be more than aware that they have plenty of pressure on their shoulders here. However, despite heading into the fortnight interval with a 2-1 win at home against Alaves, Xavi’s side are seeking some crucial defensive resolve. Rayo Vallecano beat Xavi's mean last time when these two sides met, this match will test Barcelona's goal scoring abilities and defensive strengths.

Prediction: Rayo Vallecano 1-2 Barcelona

Telecast

India – Sports 18, JioCinema

UK – Viaplay, ITV

US –  ESPN+

Nigeria – DSTV, Gotv

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