Rayo Vallecano vs FC Barcelona Predicted lineup, betting tips, odds, injury news, H2H, telecast | LaLiga 2024-25

Hansi Flick eyes a big win for the Blaugrana giants against Los Franjirojos.

Rayo Vallecano FC, who narrowly avoided relegation last season by just a few points, are determined to make a significant impact in LaLiga this time around. The previous campaign saw Rayo Vallecano struggling with consistency, registering only eight victories out of 38 matches and finishing in the 17th position on the table. However, they have shown a renewed spirit in the new season, starting their La Liga campaign with a win and a draw. In their opening fixture, Rayo Vallecano secured an impressive victory over Real Sociedad, with goals from De Frutos and Camello, despite a late stoppage-time strike by Zubimendi.

This win gave them all three points, signalling their intent to turn things around. In their most recent match against Getafe, they managed a goalless draw, maintaining their unbeaten streak. As they prepare to face a formidable opponent in FC Barcelona, Rayo Vallecano will be looking to extend their unbeaten run. They aim to leverage the home advantage to potentially cause an upset against the Catalan giants and keep their early momentum going. Despite facing a challenging task against a strong Barcelona side, Rayo Vallecano hopes to pull off a surprise and bring joy to their home supporters.

FC Barcelona, currently positioned second in LaLiga, are aiming to leapfrog Celta Vigo at the top of the table with a win over Rayo Vallecano CF. Barcelona have enjoyed a perfect start to their league campaign, maintaining a 100% win record in both of their opening matches. In their first fixture, they overcame Valencia despite an early setback, with Robert Lewandowski scoring twice in quick succession to secure all three points. Barcelona mirrored this performance in their most recent encounter against Athletic Club, where goals from Lamine Yamal and Lewandowski once again sealed a victory, keeping their winning streak intact.

Despite a frustrating pre-season that saw them lose the Joan Gamper Trophy final to AS Monaco and suffer a defeat against AC Milan, Barcelona have shown resilience and determination. They have successfully put those setbacks behind them, focusing on a strong start to the La Liga season. Now, as they prepare to face Rayo Vallecano CF, Barcelona will look to extend their winning run and move to the top of the league standings, continuing their pursuit of LaLiga glory with confidence and momentum.

This match promises to be an intriguing affair, with both sides looking competitive and eager to secure a victory. Although FC Barcelona might appear to have the upper hand due to the depth and quality of their squad, Rayo Vallecano should not be underestimated. They have started the season with a renewed sense of purpose and will be bolstered by the home advantage, which could play a crucial role in levelling the playing field. Expect a closely contested, neck-and-neck battle as both teams strive to assert their dominance on the pitch.

Job done. pic.twitter.com/YOLL2u6eeN

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 24, 2024

Kick-Off: 

Wednesday, 28 August 2024 at 1:00 AM IST

Location: Estadio de Vallecas, Madrid, Spain

Form: 

Rayo Vallecano (in all competitions): W-W-L-L-L

FC Barcelona (in all competitions): W-L-L-W-W

Players to watch :

Alfonso Espino (Rayo Vallecano)

Alfonso Espino, the seasoned 32-year-old left-back from San Jacinto, Uruguay, began his professional career with Nacional Montevideo, where he made over 100 appearances and scored four goals. After five solid years at Nacional, he transitioned to Cádiz, making 146 appearances and playing a key role in their defence. In 2023, his standout performances earned him a contract with Rayo Vallecano, where he has continued to be a reliable defensive force. Despite facing challenges, Espino has consistently provided stability and strength in defence, making him an invaluable asset.

As Rayo Vallecano prepares to face FC Barcelona, Espino’s experience and defensive acumen will be crucial. His ability to make overlapping runs down the left flank while maintaining a solid defensive presence will be essential in containing Barcelona’s potent attackers like Robert Lewandowski, Ansu Fati, and Lamine Yamal. Wearing jersey number 12, Espino will aim to ensure that Rayo Vallecano’s defence remains solid and that they keep a clean sheet against their formidable opponents.

Lamine Yamal (FC Barcelona)

Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old Spanish sensation, has captured global attention following his standout performances at the recently concluded Euro 2024. The tournament marked a significant breakthrough in Yamal’s burgeoning career, as he dazzled the footballing world with his exceptional skills and maturity on the pitch. Starting his football journey at a young age with La Torreta, Yamal’s talents were quickly recognized by FC Barcelona, where he spent over eight years developing his game in their esteemed academy. After demonstrating his abilities with Barcelona’s second team, he was soon promoted to the senior squad, rapidly becoming a crucial part of the main team and securing his place in the starting XI.

Yamal’s exploits at Euro 2024 were nothing short of extraordinary, as he consistently delivered game-changing performances, earning him the UEFA Euro 2024 Young Player of the Tournament award. Additionally, he made history by becoming the youngest player ever to win the Euros, contributing significantly with a decisive assist to Nico Williams’ goal that secured Spain’s triumph. As he continues to ride this wave of success, Yamal will be eager to maintain his excellent form in La Liga, hoping to further cement his reputation as a rising star for Barcelona and build on his remarkable achievements from Euro 2024.

Match facts

• Vallecano won two games in their last five matches.
• FC Barcelona won three of their last five matches.
• Vallecano are coming after a narrow win over Real Sociedad.

Rayo Vallecano vs FC Barcelona: Betting Tips and Odds

• Tip 1 – Match to end in a draw: 14/5 with bet365
• Tip 2 – Robert Lewandowski to score first: 7/2 with vbet
• Tip 3 – Goals over 1.5

Injury and team news

Inigo Perez will have the luxury to field his best combination of players from a fully fit and available side.

FC Barcelona are set to miss the presence of Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Gavi, Ansu Fati and Frenkie de Jong due to injury concerns.

Head-to-head record

Total matches – 45

Rayo Vallecano won – 07

FC Barcelona won – 28

Matches drawn – 10

Predicted lineup

Rayo Vallecano predicted lineup (4-4-2)

Cardenas (GK); Ratiu, Lejeune, Mumin, Espino; de Frutos, Lopez, O.V, Embarba; Nteka, Palazon

FC Barcelona predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)

ter Stegen (GK); Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde; Bernal, Casado; Yamal, Raphinha, Torres; Lewandowski

Match prediction for Rayo Vallecano vs FC Barcelona

Rayo Vallecano have so far exhibited a fearless brand of football. Looking at the big list of absentees in Blaugrana camp, coupled with the fact that Vallecano will have an added home advantage, we expect this fixture to culminate with points getting shared.

Prediction: Rayo Vallecano 1-1 FC Barcelona

Telecast for Rayo Vallecano vs FC Barcelona

India – GXR World

UK – Viaplay, ITV, La Liga TV

US – ESPN

Nigeria – SuperSports, CANAL+

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